Wardens of Heroes Gate

Dawndra in Fireshear

] You left Luskan early this morning with your guide, Shenthrik Spinedelver aboard his sailing vessel – the Kirn Kuldihr. Your destination is Icewind Dale, specifically Tentowns, to take part in the annual Frozenfar Fray Games as a contestant. You hired Shent as your guide – not only for the journey to and from Tentowns, but also thru the games themselves. He was guide to your teacher in the Treyvigg Monastery a few years ago. Guide Riandyl did not take home prize money from the contest, but she took home skill and experience which she wants you to have as well.

] Guide Riandyl gave you a Blue Sapphire worth 1,000gp to offer Shent as payment for his services. When you boarded Kirn Kuldhir at First Shadow, Shent produced a small chest he called a Trust Box. On top of the chest were four flat slots – two on either side. You placed the payment – the Blue Sapphire – within the chest and closed it. Then each of you place a single coin in the farthest slots. This locked the Trust Box magically. Shent explained that when you consider his services completed you will place a second coin next to your first. This will release your hold on the contents. Having placed the first remunerator coin, only you can place the second. Same with the recipient… having placed the first recipient coin, only Shent can place the second and open the chest. Guide Riandyl assured you that Shent could be trusted and relied upon, but still you felt increased confidence in the arrangement. You also decided to give Shent the Ring of Evasion you found on the slavers boat. (Potentially worth ~1-5k)

] It is dark and snow is falling lightly as you moor the boat at a dock on the far western side of the waterfront of Fireshear. You walk out onto the deck to view the town as Shent secures lines. The town of Fireshear is a short uphill walk from the piers and you see lanterns along the switchbacks. The town itself it difficult to see from the docks except for the maybe lights. There is activity among many of the other boats docked to to your left in the large port. The water is calm behind the breakers but you hear the sound of a boat rocking off the starboard side.

Dawndra] I am curious so I take a look.

] You see a flatboat with its deck loaded with crates and barrels. You do not see any persons aboard the small hauling vessel. The ship suddenly rocks again, slapping water against the dock it is tied to.

Dawndra] That’s strange, I think to myself. I wonder if there is something under the docks. Can I determine the reason for the movement? [Perception Check]

] You cannot determine the cause of the irregular movement.

Dawndra] “Shent.” I call. “Over here a moment. That hauling boat… it moved as if something moved it. I wonder… is there is something large underneath us?”

] Shent “Impossible to tell in dark waters.”

Dawndra] This reminds me that I have a new ring. “I have an idea. Find me an object you don’t mind tossing into the water.”

] Shent hands you a loaf of bread. “Like this?”

Dawndra] “That could work. I might float – but maybe that is what we need.” I use the ring to cast Light on the loaf of bread and then I try to throw it into the water on the far side of the flatboat so it will illuminate the waters underneath.

] You throw the glowing loaf of bread but it bounces off of something you cannot see and it lands inside the flatboat.

] Shent “What the… wait…” He says quietly.

] With the added light you can see that the falling snow is landing on invisible objects the shape of short people.

] Shent “Gracks! Arm yourself.” He runs to a bell near his ships helm and starts ringing it “Gracks!” He yells repeatedly.

[()]

]  As you look to see what Shent could be talking about, the boat shifts again and you see an odd movement of apparently floating snow. A javelin flies directly at you

Dawndra] I use my reaction to try to catch it (Deflect Missiles)

] You successfully snatch the javelin out of the air before it strikes you. You notice the shape which threw the weapon is now visible. You see a hairless Dwarf with dark grey skin.

Dawndra] Without really considering possible complications, I leap over the side of Shents boat and attempt to land in the flatboat while attacking the hairless Dwarf using his own javelin. [Acrobatics Check]

Results Table

Dawndra]

] You misjudge the leap but land deftly on the snow-covered wharf. The Dwarf is too far away for an attack.

] Initiation

] You see one completely hairless Dwarf – what Shent called a “Grack” – about 10 feet away from you inside the flatboat pulling a war pick from a holster on his back. You see another shape, dusted with snow, also inside the flatboat. There are words in a language you cannot understand and you hear a reply come from the shore.

Dawndra] I decide to throw the wooden spear back at its owner (Grack01). I’m not sure I want to actually attempt manuevers from inside the boat.

] The spear makes a splitting sound as it sinks into the belly of the Grack. He staggers backwards but keeps his footing. The boat rocks. You see the other shape begin to move from the boat to the dock. The Grack with its own spear in its belly and a war pick in its hands begins to grow in size. It nearly doubles in size. There are footprints in the snow on the dock between you and the shore. Suddenly you see a second Grack become visible and enlarge in size.

[()]

] A javelin flies toward you from the shore but misses. It skitters to end of the dock and splashes into the water. [()] ] Another is thrown but strikes the back of the enlarging Grack on the dock. [()] A third lands near you and bounces into the water.

] Shent has stopped ringing the bell and you hear him yell on the shoreline. [()] He has engaged one of the now visible Gracks. You hear others from the docks responding to Shents alarm bell. The two, now giant Gracks look at you with what anyone would call extreme hatred. The one on the dock towers over you and the other has begun to move off the boat. It shifts hard under the increased weight.

Dawndra] “I’m not used to being the short one.” I attack the one on the dock (Grack02)

] You combined attack is punishing and the Grack falls [()] into the boat, shifting it hard. [()] but the other Grack (01) manages to keep his footing. He steps onto the dock and swings the war pick at you [()] successfully. You take 7 damage as the giant weapon hits you.

] You barely notice that the fighting continues on the shoreline. [()]

Dawndra] “Ogreballs! That hurt!” I attempt to return the pain

] The Grack with the spear in its belly falls [()] to the slick dock. You see it begin to shrink back to its normal size.

Dawndra] I move towards the shoreline to backup Shent

] The other three Gracks have all begun changing shape, growing into near giants. Shent continues his attacks [()] felling one of them before it can finish enlarging. Two remain. As you are running towards them, you see a Gold-scaled Dragonborn taking aim with a bow [()] but his arrow is off-mark.

Dawndra] “Three down Shent!” I attack the closest (5)

] You lunge your ice pike into the giant sized Dwarf with both hands. You sidestep as you withdraw your weapon and attempt to land a spinning back kick which misses but you follow with a snap kick into the body of the Grack.

] The other Grack says something – apparently a recommendation to flee, because they both turn towards the sparse forest behind them [Opportunity Attack]

Dawndra] I take the opportunity

] The Grack only makes it a step when your ice pike spears him through the back. He falls forward and is dead before he hits the ground. The other gets away but not before the golden Dragonborn sticks an arrow in his back.

Dawndra] “Do we chase him down Shent?”

] Shent “Let him go. His mission failed.”

] Dragonborn “Shent!? Is that you?”

] Shent turns to look “Saarvin! I thought you were in Waterdeep living the easy life!”

] Saarvin “Nothing easy about life anywhere if your friends aren’t there! How is my favorite snow-crusted Spinedelver?”

] Shent “Thirsty! What else!?”

] A handful of others from the docks further down have arrived. Saarvin explains that the Gracklebacks have attempt another raid but were stopped. They find that the flatboat was loaded with stolen weapons and supplies. Saarvin digs through the pockets of the dead dark Dwarves and hands Shent several items.

] Saarvin “No telling where this coin came from, so consider it the towns reward to you and your friend for shutting down them Gracks. Now about that thirst of yours Shent, why don’t the two of you join me ‘n Roller at Crotta’s?”

] Shent “See you there Saarvin!”

] You finish gathering your things from the Kirn Kuldihr as Shent secures moorings and locks down this hatches.

Dawndra] “So these Gracks… distant cousins of yours?”

] Shent “So say some. They are Underdark Dwarves…. Known as Duergar by most. Never seen one on the surface until recently. There’s lots of stories – and you can bet your loot that Saarvin’s gonna tell us a few of them over cups – but this much I do know. They invaded Hundlestone a few months back, came up from beneath the city and somehow took it over. It used to be a nice spot to stay over between Fireshear and Bry Shandor… but we will be going well round it on our way.”

Dawndra] “I find it difficult to forget the look on their faces – such pure hatred.”

] Shent “They hate everyone and everything. But then… pretty much everyone hates ’em back. These raids are now common in the Frozenfar. It started with things going missing – arms mostly but any sort of wealth could disappear while folks slept. They burned down the blacksmith shop and forge here in Fireshear a week back. I think they are just trying to terrorize all their new neighbors.”

Dawndra] “Well… I might guess it’s working well. How do they turn invisible like that? Or giant for that matter? Magic rings?”

] Shent “I couldn’t tell you. I have fought them once before – nothing magic found on them. Stories say that all Duergar have dark magic in their dark blood. Speaking of stories, let’s make way for the Leaping Leucrotta.”

] You follow the switchback trail up to where the town of Fireshear begins. The Tavern is the first  building you come across, but you can see dozens along the hillside. The shops and homes are all dug out of the rock and made of stone with sloping, almost round roofs. Several inches of covers everything, but you get the impression that the town is accoustomed to handling a lot more than this. Stepping inside Crotta’s, you notice the majority of patrons are Dwarves but there is still great diversity – including some folk like you have never seen before. No one seems to give you and Shent a second look at you walk thru. Against the western wall, you see two golden Dragonborns at a table for four.

] Saarvin “Welcome friends! This is my daughter, Roller. And this is my old friend and fellow Spine ranger – Shent. And his friend… say… I did not get your name down at the docks.”

Dawndra] “I am called Dawndra. Well met Saarvin, Roller.”

] Shent “Dawndra is competing in the Fray games this year. What about you Saarvin? Or are you getting too old for the cold?” He laughs.

] Saarvin “I thought I might… old or not!”

Dawndra] “Have you competed before Saarvin?”

] Roller “Father has won the games twice!”

] Saarvin “And lost twice… but we don’t tell those stories.

Dawndra] “Maybe you could share some wisdom? If you don’t mind aiding the competition some…”

] Saarvin “But you are not just any competition are you… you are a friend of Shent and therefore a friend of ours. I obviously don’t need to teach you how to fight, judging from the dead Gracks on the docks and you with barely a scratch.”

] Shent “She was wise enough to notice the smallest of things – a boat rocking unnaturally in the water.”

] Saarvin “Wisdom is the better part of whats needed in the Fray games. The first round is there to weed out the ones who never should have entered… but still add their gold to the pot. The Stones Throwdown is an unarmed and unarmored wrestling match. The objective is simple… don’t get thrown out of the circle of the Twenty Stones of Thrunn. And then do it twice again if you can. If you can survive all three matches, the next Round is a lot easier… you only need to win one match to win the round. At first it is going to seem like chaos… I think they have shoved upwards of a hundred and fifty competitors into the circle. The horn sounds twice to start each match. At the first horn, every competitor enters the circle and fights to get to the center. At the second horn no one else can enter but many start leaving the circle in a hurry, on their heads.

Dawndra] “Why the center?”

] Saarvin “It is furthest from the bounds and so hardest to shove one out. You have to survive within the circle for five minutes – until the third horn sounds. That is a long time – trust me. If I were you, I would find someone who seems an even match and drag out the time. If you are engaged, expecially with another of your size, others are likely to find a single target and you can ride out the time. This might be a bit underhanded but it is not against the rules. You do not have to beat your opponent, you just need to survive the time within the stones. Now… at the third horn, the fighting stops and everyone that is still within the circle by both feet win the match. Oh… almost. At the third horn, the priests cast a magic test… anyone caught with an enchanted item will be disqualified and thrown out by the judges. ”

] Shent “I will be there to hold keep for your things Dawndra.”

] Saarvin “Yes – you will need someone you can trust. Theives are dealt with most severely in Icewind Dale but that does not stop some of them from trying. Now… if you win a match and pass the magic sweep, the priests heal all the winners. That allows you to go into the next match fresh. If you are thrown out with injuries, you can still compete in the second or third match, but at a disadvantage. You only need one win at the stones to be entered into the next competition – The Ice Pit Riot. It is better, of course, if you win two or three times… because the ice pit is far more difficult than the stones.”

Dawndra] “I understand we fight on solid ice?”

] Saarvin “Yes. The fighting arena is a large hole that is filled with water from the Redwaters. It is probably frozen hard even now. In this Round, you can use whatever magic or weapons want – there are no restrictions. You probably will not face any powerful wizards however… they usually don’t even enter, and if they did… they would hardly pass the Throwdown without their magic. Most of the barbarians of the dale are distrusting of magic anyway… mostly you are going to face men and dwarves who are extremely skilled with an axe or sword… The objective in Round two is also simple… kill both of our opponents without getting killed yourself. At the first horn, three contestants enter the ice pit, at the second horn they fight until only one remains able to stand.”

Dawndra] “The Priests of The Winter Palace can heal any I kill right?”

] Saarvin “I like how you are more concerned about your opponents than your own self.” He smiles at Shent… “Where did you find this one?” Then he turns back to you to answer your question. “Yes, they are there to heal any who fall. Well… mostly… There have been fatal deaths from the Ice Pit Riot. I saw a man cut literally in half. The clerics of Auril tried but nothing they could do would glue that one back together. The trick to this competition is to be quick and brutal. Size up both of your competitors and take out the biggest one first. That means, unfortunately for you, your opponents are likely to both start out against you. However, they go for each other, pick the greater challenge and double-team him until it is only two of you. If you are not accoustomed to fighting on ice, you might want to practice that. Combat without solid footing is far more difficult than you might imagine. You can get claws for your feet – many do. But I’ve also seen feet chopped off in the battle to remove the advantage. There really are no rules in this round. If you get shoved out of the arena, you will probably get shoved back in by the crowd. If you have to fight more than once, and most do, you are going to want some potions in between. I can direct you to an reliable Alchemist here in Fireshear… if you wait until Bryn Shandar you won’t find any. ”

Dawndra] “I appreciate that. So if I win three times in Round one, I only need one win is Round Two?”

] Saarvin “That is right. Think of it this way, you need a total of four wins between both Rounds. If you win two in the first, you need two in the second.”

Dawndra] “How are the matches determined in Round Two? I mean… how are my opponents selected?”

] Saarvin “Ah… perhaps you have heard some of the rumblings over past years?”

Dawndra] “No, just curious to know.”

] Saarvin “Well, the contestents of each battle are supposed to be randomly selected. You might even have to fight two rounds in a row if your number is drawn. Some results, especially last year, started rumors of cheating and corruption.”

Dawndra] “You mean the judges can be paid to shift outcomes?”

] Saarvin “So say some. I’m not sure I believe it, but neither am I confident of their character.”

] Roller lightly slams a fist down on the table “I hate cheaters! Let the Yeti’s have ’em! I say.”

] Saarvin “Right you are Roller!” He mimics her fist slam for effect. “But speaking of Yeti’s… they might be the most dangerous part of the Fray Games. In Round Three you hunt down and behead a Frost Troll, but you are far more likely to find a Yeti first – and just hope it is not a big one.”

Dawndra] “Contestants take on Trolls and Yeti’s by themselves?”

] Saarvin “Some do. They usually don’t survive. The priests are not there to heal anyone in Round Three. The rules for the Frost Troll Head Roll are minimal. You have three days to hunt down and kill a troll. All contestants must return to Easthaven by the end of Lastshadow on Day 30 else be disqualified. You can team up with other contestants but only those stepping into the winners square in Easthaven with a fresh troll’s head in their hand will win. If you team up with another and you both want to win, you need to take down two trolls. Just finding one troll can be difficult and they are rarely found together with another. Many of the barbarians will have the support of a few others from their hunting parties. It’s not against the rules for a dozen men to kill a troll and allow their champion to carry the head into Easthaven, but these Reghedmen have their own sense of honor. It’s the outsiders that are more likely to use these kinds of tactics. Speaking of underhanded tactics and cheaters… some will merely wait in the outskirts of Easthaven and attempt to kill any returning contestant to take the Trolls head from their dead hands. Watch yourself as you return, if you return. You will likely be ambushed. The second time I took a prize, I circled round and took a fishing boat into Lac Dinneshere. I rolled into the docks looking like a Knucklehead fisher and no one gave me any trouble. No guarantees that play will still work.”

Dawndra] “You are right Roller!” I slam my fist down, gently… “Let the Yeti’s have the cheats! I am here to prove my skill.”

] Saarvin “If you get ambushed, show no mercy I say… let their frozen corpses speak for you.”

Dawndra] “Question… I’ve heard that trolls will regenerate lost limbs or even grow new bodies from a decaptitated head? How do you stop the head from become a whole troll again?”

] Saarvin “Fire. Or acid. Or both. Once you have chopped the head off, use a torch or a firepit to scorch all of the exposed flesh… simple enough once the fight is over – but it is not so simple while ducking its long-ass claws. Be careful though not to scorch all of the flesh off… the judges need to see that it is a fresh kill – that – and everyone in Easthaven wants to see you holding your prize up high in the winners circle.”

] Shent “I will help you track and hunt down your troll. Saarvin is correct about the fact that we are just as likely to find a Yeti as a Frost Troll. Yeti’s travel on all fours so if the tracks are fresh, we can avoid them, but if we need to start poking our heads into caves and caverns looking for their dens, we could find either. When I was guide for your teacher, Riandyl, it was a Yeti that caused her loss in the games. We were exploring a narrow cave that looked and smelled like a Frost Troll lodge, but a Yeti followed us in. They have powerful smellers… Yeti’s. Even in a blizzard they can track you by smell if they are hungry enough.”

Dawndra] “How did you defeat the Yeti?”

] Shent “Only by a hair. Riandyl and I both were badly injured and spent over a day in that cave just trying to regain the strength to return empty-handed.”

Dawndra] “Too bad the Yeti’s head would not substitute.”

] Saarvin “That is, I think, the real part of the challenge of Round Three… there are more Yeti’s in the Spine than there are Frost Trolls, and while you are tracking one, the other is likely tracking you. This is why it is foolish to hunt alone. Most have the support of someone like Shent or myself.”

Dawndra] “Oh, you have been a guide to other contestants?”

] Saarvin “Many times… that is how I gained the experience to compete myself four times.”

] Roller “And win twice!”

] Saarvin “And win twice! And loose twice… but to be honest, that first loss turned out better for me… financially… I happened into the lair of a White Dragon. I told you this story once Shent.”

] Shent “At least. But please tell-tell again… it is one of my favorites.”

] Saarvin “I knew by the way my scales tingled that there was a dragon nearby. I lost sight of my goal to find a Frost Troll as we went deeper into the Spine… Relgar was certain we found a lair. It took several hours to find it, but sure enough – we walked into the treasure hoard of an adult white dragon as it slept on a massive hoard. ”

] Shent “And you stole a whole pouch of coins from under the sleeping dragons chin…”

] Saarvin “No, that was another time and another dragon. This dragon was clever and  kept every last coin frozen inside a giant mound of ice.”

] Roller “Then father made fire. I can almost make fire.”

] Saarvin “We’ve been practicing… haven’t we Roller. And you are right, I used my flame breath to melt away some ice along the far edge of the hoard. We barely each pulled some treasure from the ice when the dragon stirred. I escaped with just a silver ring. Relgar and Gryna each nabbed some gems. Just tokens really, we thought… but I later discovered the ring was quite valuable. I never did tell Relgar and Gryna how much I sold it for… so if you happen to see them… ”

] Shent “What made you leave the comforts of Waterdeep and return to this ice hole?”

] Saarvin “Yarinn and I left Fireshear when Roller was born. We thought a big city behind big walls would be a safer place to raise our child. It wasn’t though… was it Roller?”

] Roller “Mother was killed by bad men. We lost her.”

] Saarvin “I realized I would rather fight off crag cats and yeti’s than fight the politics of the big city and its scheming power mongers. Besides, Roller is almost four now – she needs to learn to survive in the Frozenfar like her father and mother before her.”

] Roller “I’m going to be a Spine Ranger!”

] Shent “We will be lucky to have you Roller.”

Dawndra] “I’m certain of it. So are ‘Spine Rangers’  a collective of sorts? Like a guild or something?”

] Shent “Informally. We thought about making things formal, years ago… didn’t we Saarvin?”

] Saarvin “Perhaps we still can. The Fray Games are bringing more visitors from below the Spine. It used to just be The Tribe of the Elk and some Tentowners, but I’ve heard that the last few years have brought folk (and their gold) from all over the Realms.”

] Shent “I keep busy all year round as a guide for hunters and delvers in these parts. You are correct though, the games draw a lot of outsiders who don’t know the first thing about surviving the Frozenfar.”

] Saarvin “What was the total purse last year Shent?”

] Shent “There was over 200 competitors in the Stones Throwdown. At 150gp apeice, that’s what… 30,000 in the purse? Only three returned to Easthaven as winners last year, so ten each? Not bad.”

Dawndra] “Wow! Over 200 competitors?”

] Shent “Like Saarvin said, that first day of the games is chaos. Less than half of ’em made to Round Two. There were less than twenty competitors in the hunt and most of them are probably still out there buried under snow and ice.”

] The four of you continue to talk over a meal and more ale. Afterwards, Saarvin takes you to an alchemist where you purchase as many healing potions as you think you might need for the games.  Shent also suggests some vials of acid for dealing with the Trolls. The four of you head back to the docks to get a long rest before morning.

Dawndra on Ten Trail

] You are in Fireshear preparing to make the dangerous trek North to Tentowns. You have just finished a long rest aboard the Kirn Kuldihr – the sailing vessel of your guide, Shenthrik Spinedelver. You are making this journey to compete in the Frozenfar Fray Games, an annual competition in the Tentowns area. Last night you arrived in Fireshear and discovered a raiding party of Duergar from Clan Grackleback were stealing a cache of weapons and other valuables. Who joined in the battle against the “Gracks” but Saarvin – a Gold Dragonborn native of Fireshear and long-time friend of Shent. Over a meal, he shared some guidance for competing in the Fray Games, seeing as how he has been through them four times as a competitor and several times before that as a guide to contestants. You also visited a local alchemist and stored up some healing potions and some vials of acid for fighting Frost Trolls.

] You awake to a soft silence. The waters at the docks of Fireshear are calm. You climb out of the hull to find a thick blanket of snow covers everything . Large dry flakes are falling, clouding your vision of the rest of the ships in dock and of the town up on the hillside.

Dawndra]  The cold snowy air invigorates me. I go out onto the end of the pier and, looking out over the sea of swords, I drop my robes and practice my forms before the day begins. Rising…. Sinking… breathing in, I breath… breathing out, I breath… Arms rise… arms sink… opening… clearing…

] 30 minutes pass without your notice, so deep is your medititation. The cold temperature give you an added +1 to your Con modifier, increasing your hp by +3.   As you complete Heaven’s Orbit, you notice the smell of pipe smoke and turn to find Shent sitting on the bow of Kirn Kuldhir watching you.

] Shent “Good Waking Dawndra”

Dawndra] “Good Waking.” I pick up my clothes, shake the snow off and cover my body.

] Shent “I hope you slept well enough… it may be a bit small but its where you will be sleeping for the next several tendays.”

Dawndra] “What? I expected we would be traveling by foot from here.”

] Shent “Oh we will… We can make our start as soon as you are ready. We will travel as far North as we can get today in this snow. But, and I will just have to show you, we will return here for safe rest each night. Unless, of course, you want to sleep in the wilderness. ”

Dawndra] “There is something I don’t understand, but you are my guide so I will trust you know what you are talking about.”

] Shent “You will see… and I think you will be happy to start each new day here as you have today. Speaking of being your guide… I want to make something clear – even if I don’t need to. I am your guide – not your guard. My job is to direct you, not protect you.”

Dawndra] “That sounds rehearsed.”

] Shent “It is. Point being, I will fight alongside you should the need arise but I am not your shield. And if I say run, I’m running whether or not you run too. Clear?”

Dawndra] “Of course. I would not have expected any different.”

] Shent “The dockmaster here is a friend, he will do his best to ensure the Kirn Kuldhir is left to itself while we are gone. If you want to store anything in the hull, it should be safe enough… unless giants attack Fireshear again… then… well… lets just hope for no giants right?”

] The two of you ready and depart. After a quick meal at Crotta’s  you strap on your snow shoes and begin your northbound journey on the snow-covered Ten Trail. Travel is slow but uneventful. Somewhere around Crex (midday) the snow stops falling and the sky brightens – affording you some spectacular views of the Spine of the World.  The mountains are larger and more striking than any can imagine. You do not see sign of any other persons the entire day and only hints of movement in the foothills. As Last Shadow nears, Shent is looking to call it a day.

] Shent “We have traveled just over six miles I would say. Not bad for a first timer in heavy snow. I say we call it a day and go get some grub at Crotta’s.”

Dawndra] “Crotta’s?”

] Shent “Over there, we can lose our tracks among the small copse of trees.”

] He leads to you offtrail to a forested area where the trees are so heavy with snow that the ground beneath them is mostly frozen gloam rather than fresh snow.

] Shent “This should do nicely.”

] He pulls out a gem from a pouch tied around his neck. It is a blue star sapphire similar to the one Guide Riandyl gave you to pay Shent with. He tucks it into the ground and tries to hide any trace of it. Then you see him reach a hand to the pendant braided into his snow-crusted beard. A moment later, a blazing blue portal opens up directly above where he buried the gem.

] Shent “After you friend. Don’t worry, as long as the Kirn Kuldhir is still afloat in the docks, it is perfectly safe. Just take a couple steps forward on the other side so I don’t knock into you.”

Dawndra] I step into the portal.

] As though stepping through a doorway, you find yourself inside the hull of Shent’s boat. A moment later Shent also steps through.

] Shent “Hungry? I sure am!”

] Inside Crotta’s you meet up again with Saarvin and Roller. The young dragonborn girl is overly excited to see you again and she talks your ear off whenever her father is not telling his own fantastic stories. He might embellish things a bit for flare, but you sense he truly is a legend of a Ranger in these parts.

] You sleep for a long rest in the Kirn Kuldhir. In the first shadow of day 26 you repeat your practices, have a quick meal and then step back into a swirling blue portal to find yourself back in the copse of trees where Shent buried the gem. He tucks it back into the pouch around his neck and you strap your snow shoes back on. Somewhere past Crex, Shent stops.

] Shent “Here we have a decision to make. You can’t tell with all the fresh snow, but if we head north and west from here we will be on The Iron Trail towards Ironmaster. If we continue north, we will soon see the city of Hundlestone. Given that the Gracks would not spare us an extra breath, I think we want to avoid Hundlestone. We can either go off-trail and give the city a really wide berth… or we can go underground. How do you feel about dark tunnels and tight spaces?”

Dawndra] “I can’t know I really know. The one time I tried to enter into a mountainside mine, I couldn’t… well… I couldn’t fit. It was a small crevasse. Even the gnome had to squeeze if I’m honest.”

] Shent “The path for the next 10 miles or so is the most dangerous regardless. If we enter into the old mining tunnels, we can skirt right around all of the drama at Hundlestone – and probably make much better time without snowshoes. Honestly I’ve travelled twice as many miles in these tunnels without encountering so much as a Bandicoot… but I’ve also nearly lost my life in these tunnels a few times too. There are more than few Remorhaz in these parts. Of course, when I want to find one, they are nowhere to be found. That was my last expedition… the one I had just got back from when you showed up at the Cutlass. I was guiding a party on a Remorahaz hunt. They had strong numbers, and I was worried about outcomes. With just you and I, we would be outmatched by an adult, and there is nowhere to run in the tunnels. Still, the odds are probably better for us there than anywhere near Hundlestone right now.”

Dawndra] “Tunnels it is then.” I feel for the ring on my finger which allows me magical light. I am not afraid of darkness – but I would be completely blind without some light and I don’t know if I can fight blinded. I find myself thinking about Olirasi and wishing I had spent more time taking lessons from her.

] Travel gets a little easier along The Iron Trail – the snow has stiffened and waymarkers are clear. Ater a few miles, Shent leads you off-trail into a region of rocky spikes and spires. He winds through the unique landscape – obviously quite familiar with the terrain.

] Shent “Here we are. Best light a torch, its going to get really dark really quick.”

Dawndra] I pull a torch from my pack and cast Light on it using my ring. “There’s more than one way to light a torch! eh?”

] You follow Shent into the tunnel which winds around and down into the ground a hundred feet or more deep. The spiral drops out into a surprisingly large tunnel running north and south from you. You see ancient support beams made of black timber. There is some detritus along the edges but it appears as  though the tunnel has seen recently foot traffic – perhaps quite a bit. The air is cold and smells of mineral and dirt.

] Shent whispers “We will likely hear trouble before we see it, so keep as quiet as can be.”

] You have been walking behind Shent for almost an hour when he motions to stop. He reaches out and feels the rock wall of the tunnel.

] Shent “What is that!?” he says softly. “Can you feel it?”

Dawndra] I put my hand on the wall.

] You notice a very slight vibration but probably would not have if Shent had not called your attention to it.

] Shent “Boots on ground. Lots of boots… hundreds. That is an army!”

Dawndra] “Where would an army come from out here?”

] Shent “Only one place… Ironmaster. And if Ironmaster is marching… the only reason will be Hundlestone. They are going to strike down the Gracklebacks!”

Dawndra] “Then Hundlestone will should be safe to travel thru on the way back then?”

] Shent “I would bet my blades on it. If Ironmaster has left their gates in force… the duergar clan does not have much of a chance to hold the city. Although honestly, no one knows how they even managed it in the first place. We have another choice to make I’m afraid…”

Dawndra] “You want to go back and join the march on Hundlestone?”

] Shent “No, I’m not the army-Dwarf sort of Dwarf… but to watch Ironmaster forces in action… that would surely be a story one could tell for years upon years. It would cost us a day extra… at most.”

Dawndra] “I have time before the games start. Let us go watch a war!”

] Shent “There is a connecting tunnel, maybe a mile ahead, which leads east and eventually into the mines beneath Hundlestone. I know a way through which might just give us the best view of the action if we can get there ahead of Ironmaster.”

Dawndra] “Lead on then Ser Spinedelver.”

] You continue forward in the tunnels for a distance before turning east down the connecting tunnel. The eastbound tunnels are a tighter fit for you and you need to duck to enter them. Before you walk more than a hundred feet, you hear echoes of conflict from the tunnels ahead. There is a ear-piercing shriek, followed by another, which make you reach to cover your ears.

] Shent “Trouble ahead. I cannot make out much.”

Dawndra] “If it is coming our way, I’d rather fight in the larger tunnel behind us.” I ready my ice pike at about half full length so I can use it in the tunnels. I carefully backtrack.

] Shent “There is someone running towards us, several someones… and fast.”

] Just as you reach the junction, five duergars appear running at full speed towards you.

Dawndra] I drop the torch and ready a defensive position.

] The under dwarves seem panic’d. A second later you see why. Chasing them is a snarling beast with a spiked horn on it head and giant tri-claws. Its head and neck are plated with shimmering white scales but the rest of its body is covered in dirty-white fur. Five duergar quickly become four as the monster shreds the backside of the furthest runner. The lead nearly plows into Shent trying to get away. [()] He tries to strike down the running dwarf but misses.

] Initiative

] The four duergar reach the larger tunnel and see you Dawndra blocking their way North and Shent blocking their way South. They apparently decide that north is the way they want to escape. One attacks you (03) as the other (04) tries to run around you. [()] The Grack fails to hit, leaving himself open to your reaction.

Dawndra]

] You stab the under dwarf as the other skirts around you and disappears down the tunnel. Shent attacks another duergar (01) as it runs into range. [()] You hear his battleaxe strike thru leather armor.

Dawndra] “They don’t want to fight us.”

] Shent “Keep the fodder penned! Attack the beast .”

Dawndra] I ready an attack for the rampaging beast as soon as it comes into range while trying to block the way north.

] Two of the duergar realize they are being boxed and turn to face the onrushing claws. [()] They both succeed in damaging the beast. It begins to circle them, putting its hind quarter into your range.

Dawndra]

] The ferocious thing squeals with a high pitched cry [()] but is so focused on the duergar it blames them for the pain [()] and takes a bite into one of them. You hear more charging echoes from the eastbound tunnel.

] Shent yells “More trouble coming!” and readies an action.

Dawndra] I repeat my attack on the beast

] The white-crested creature flops forward as your pike pierces vital organs.

Dawndra] I throw a side kick at one of the grey dwarves (03) – if only to prevent him from running around me

] Two Gracks attack Shent together [()] but he ducks and blocks their weapons. Another Ambusher charges into the intersection of tunnels and with strange squeal, like a tea kettle whistle, it thrusts its horned head upwards. [Dex Saving Throw]

Dawndra]

] Your ears being to ring as a burst of magical frost emanates from the horn of the creature, painting everyone and the walls around you in icy white. The duergar engaged with Dawndra falls on the blow but two remain.

] Shent “What was that!?” He attacks the second beast head-on [()] His axes glance off white scales.

Dawndra] I position myself for a flank attack on the creature

] You take good advantage of the flanking position, spearing the creatures side and then driving a heel kick repeatedly into the wound. The Frostspawn Ambusher turns on you – obviously injured and furious. The wounded duergar (01) sees an opportunity and runs past Shent. The other (02) follows.

] The Ambusher attacks you Dawndra, swiping with its giant three-clawed paw for 5 damage. It drops its head and attempt to charge you with its horn [()] but you sidestep the attack easily as it rushes past you into the northbound tunnel. [Opportunity Attack]

Dawndra]

] You deftly drop the creature to the tunnel floor.

Dawndra] I turn back towards the eastbound tunnel. “Any more coming? Can you tell?”

] Shent is quiet a moment. “I hear nothing. But m ears are ringing. Let us stay on guard to be sure.” After remaining still and quiet for nearly two minutes, he relaxes his fighting stance. “Did you see what this beast did?”

Dawndra] “Yes, but I have no idea how. Any idea what kind of beast it is?”

] Shent “Just a guess… but that kind of magic… it felt like a breath blast of a White Dragon. Plus, look at these scales… Ever seen a creature with both fur and scales?”

Dawndra] “Feathers and scales… but no… not fur and scales.”

] Shent “I’ve seen feathers that are scales… just south of Mirabar when Faernina and I were… oh… now is no time for those stories. These beasts… they must be dragonspawn. Some kind of cross between a White Dragon and… what do you think… a badger? A dire badger? And that squeal… it was… unnatural. My ears are still ringing.” He digs through his pack and pulls out a small sawblade. “If my guess is right, their magic is somehow in their horns. Help me out a minute. Hold the horn still.” With your help he begins to saw the horn from the corpse.

Dawndra] “Are you thinking you can use the horn to cast the same blast of frost?”

] Shent “Right. And if not, it may have other uses. Kinyalo will pay us well just for the opportunity to experiment with it.”After a few minutes, the major portion of the horn comes free. “There! Its not too heavy… I can pack it with us until we return to Fireshear tonight.”

Dawndra] “Do you want the other one?”

] Shent “Might as well. We will split whatever gold I get for them. Speaking of coin, we might as well loot that Grack too – no sense leaving his pocket change to rust down here.”

Dawndra] I search the corpse of the duergar.

] You find a few gold worth of coin and a small pouch with 3 gems (Onyx 50gp ea). After you remove the horn from the second creature, Shent packs up and starts back down the smaller eastbound tunnel. Several hundred feet in, you start to see more bodies of duergar slain by beasts. Some have been fed upon. Ahead the tunnel is nearly blocked by the corpse of a horned, white-scaled beast.

] Shent “There must be 20 more here. No way only three of those dragonspawn did all this. ”

Dawndra] “If the Gracklebacks were traveling west in such a large group, do you think they knew that Ironmaster was marching on them?”

] Shent “Hard to say… but you are correct – it does seem a large group. Could be several raiding parties going out of the city together… or maybe they were fleeing the city knowing that war was upon them. Let’s pick them clean and take what we can carry.”

[()]

] As you are digging through the bloody packs and pockets of the slain duergar, suddenly a Frostspawn Ambusher charges out of a hidden whole in the side of the tunnel wall. [()] Shent is hit hard by the horn of the creature. He flies into the wall and falls to the ground. The ambusher grabs his feet in it mouth and begins dragging it back into the hole.

Dawndra] “Shent!” I attack the creature

] You get one strike against the creature before it backs into the hole – with Shent in its jaws. Just ahead, another ambusher appears from another hidden hole and starts towards you.

Dawndra] I extend my ice pike to its full 10 feet and through it to the ground long-ways. “Shent! Hold on – don’t let it pull you all the way in!” I prepare a stance to face the second beast.

] Shent is able to grab hold of your weapon which is plenty long enough to cross the hole. He struggles and yells with the pain – his legs being torn by teeth. The second beast stops short of an attack then raises his horned head upwards. Your ears are once again assaulted with a high-pitched squealing and a burst of cold energy radiates out. [Dexterity check]

Dawndra]

[()]

] The cold blasts the both of you. Shent nearly loses his grip. You can see his legs are being tugged at from inside the hole.

] Initiative

Dawndra] “Hang on Shent!” I unleash all I’ve got against the beast in the tunnel.

] You perform a sweeping advance and raise your knee into the throat of the ambusher. Then you slam your elbow down into the scaled skull repeatedly. The creature is clearly injured and lets out a series of odd chirping sounds. Then it attacks you. [()] It misses with a bite attack but catches you with its claws for 7 dmg. You hear another yell from Shent, now behind you.

] Shent “It has released me. Watch out – it’s probably circling to attack you.” he says as he slides your weapon towards you. “Here, your pike!” He begins pulling himself out of the hole.

Dawndra] I don’t want to risk having that horn rammed up my backside so I continue to beat on the beast unarmed.

] You pound on the skull of the creature until its brain staggers and its eye go empty. It falls before you.

Dawndra] I pick up my weapon and ready for another attack from behind.

] You see Shent has pulled himself out into the tunnel but remains prone. His legs are mangled and bleeding. From another hole about 20 ft west of you, you see the other ambusher emerge.

Dawndra] I step over Shent to place myself between him and the creature. Then I ready a Dodge action.

] The ambusher charges with its horn [()] you feel a blast of cold force energy throw you backwards and you land atop Shent, taking 4 cold damage.

Dawndra] I try to throw my pike as a spear from my prone position

] Your desperate throw is successful, piercing into the left forward shank of the beast and sticking there. It howls in pain and raises its horn. [()] There is no squealing sound however. As it moves forward, your ice pike is jammed further in by the corpse of a duergar. The beast yelps and looks confused for a second before it begins backing away from you, taking your weapon with it.

Dawndra] “Oh no you don’t! Get back here!” I get to my feet and go after it.

] The creature attempts to turn around in the narrow tunnel but again, the long spike sticking out of its chest gets caught on the tunnel wall and it cries out again. As you approach, it again attempts to blast you with cold burst [()] but the magic does not recharge.

Dawndra] I grab my ice pike and attempt to shove it even further into the creature [Strength check]

] You succeed and punish the beast with pain (-10 hp). It attempts to slash at you [()] twice but you  hold it out of reach with your weapon. Another shove and the needle sharp point finds the beasts heart. It falls dead.

Dawndra] I turn back. “Shent! You still alive?”

] Shent is laying on the ground, digging through his pack. “Still here. A bit hobbled… not sure if I can walk.” He pulls a potion out and drinks it down. Then he hands you one. “Here – you are not looking great yourself.”

Dawndra] I drink it down (4d4 +4 = 10hp)

] Shent “I can stand at least. Not sure how many miles I can risk without some rest… we may have yet another decision before us.”

Dawndra] “Back to northbound tunnel? I wouldn’t mind… this one is a bit tight for me anyhow.”

] Shent “We will just have to hear the story of Ironmaster at Hundlestone from the bards I guess. Oh well. Let’s see how much coin we pick from this lot.. We will probably need it to replenish our supply of healing potions.”

] You find several coins on just about every corpse, amounting to just over 100gp. Every one of the Gracklebacks were carrying the same black Onyx gems. You tally up a total of 42 Onxy gems (42x50gp = 2,100gp) . Aside from these, you find some other mundane items, some daggers and common weapons and armor. Most weapons are hammers or war-picks much like the ones you saw on the docks when you fought the Grackelback raiding party. In one pack, you find a strange shaped rock with 8 even sides. Each side has some sort of rune carved into it.

Dawndra] I show it to Shent “What do you make of this?”

] Shent “Careful not to drop that… it looks like a Thunderstone. I’ve heard about these. Basically you throw it, it breaks open with a really loud bang. Might come in useful… might break in the pack too… you choose.”

Dawndra] I roll the Thunderstone into one of the side holes. I keep looting.

]  The pack on the back of one corpse has some rope and torch and some kind of toolkit. There is also a small sealed bag of something mushy – you assume food of some kind.

Dawndra] I open the bag of mush out of curiousity.

] The area is suddenly filled with the foul smell of rancid fat.

] Shent “Whew! What is that? I can smell it from here!”

Dawndra] I close it back up quickly. “Looks like a bag of rancid fat? Why would they carry this around?”

] Shent “Some questions are better not to ask.”

] You find on the body of the Grack carrying the rancid fat, a smelly filthy rag wrapped around a small pocket tin. It is rusted and dinged-up, but appears to be sealed tight.

Dawndra] I take the toolkit and the pocket tin. Being curious, I open it and look inside.

] Inside the pocket tin is some kind of ointment which smells to be made of the same rancid fat.

Dawndra] “Look… That fat is like some kind of ointment? I found this in his pocket. What do you think it is?”

] Shent “Nasty business! That is what I think it is! But if I took a serious guess, I’d say it was some kind of healing ointment. Try it and see… just stay downwind from me righto?”

Dawndra] “You think it is enchanted? Like a potion of sorts? Hold on…” I pull the bag of mush from the backpack and open it, slightly.

] The contents of the sack reeks as does the ointment in the tin except the smell from the tin has a metallic or medicinal taint.

Dawndra] “Whew!” I quickly close the bag. “I think you are right… now why would he carry rancid fat in a bad and in a tin… unless the tin somehow transforms the fat. I’m going to try it… sorry…” I open the tin and smear the contents on my skin… down on my ankles… far away from my nose.

] You regain 4d4+4 HP.

Dawndra] “Yes – it is a healing ointment. I may need a wizard to confirm it… but I will hang on to this tin.”

] Shent “Here… let me carve you off some fat from this dragonspawn to use instead of that smelly bag of smell.” He digs a blade into the belly of one of the ambushers and drops a handful of fat on the ground. “There… see if that works instead. ”

Dawndra] I wipe out the tin with the foul rag and fill it with the beast fat.

] Nothing happens.

Dawndra] “Well, it might need some time. I close it up and tuck it in my pack.”

] You gather everything else you might want or need and then head back to the northbound tunnel. Travel is slow but uneventful. After several hours, Shent decides to find a safe place to open a portal within the underground chambers. The next day (day 27) you are both back to full strenghth and exit the mining tunnels about ten miles north of Hundlestone. You travel the Ten Trail throughout the day. Along the way you have several small encounters with the local wildlife – including an attack by two hungry Crag Cats – which you defended against easily enough. You again portaled to the Fireshear docks just as Last Shadow started. Shent says you will be in Bryn Shander by Crex of day 28.

Arrival at Bryn Shander

] You left your home of ten years in the Treyvigg Monastery 6 days ago and have been making your way to Icewind Dale to compete in the annual Frozenfar Fray Games at the suggestion of your teacher, Guide Riandyl. She also thought you might be able to learn something of your past and maybe even find some of your own kin or kind here in Icewind Dale. The truth of who and even what you are has been a mystery under your skin for your entire life, and while you do not have your hopes high… there is something about the brisk cold that feels like a call to come home.

] This morning you awoke, as you have the last several mornings, on Shent boat in the Fireshear docks. Thanks to a portal device he carries, you have been reasonably safe and warm overnight as you have traveled during the day to Tentowns. You have been walking in snowshoes for over four when Shent points ahead.

] Shent “Bryn Shander rests atop that hill there. Always a welcomed sight after miles of trudging through snow.”

] As you get closer, the city becomes more visible. You can see the 30′ high circular wall that surrounds it and far in the distance behind it, you see the peak of Kelvins Cairn. Just ahead, near the foot of the hill, Shent directs your attention to something.

] Shent “There… it’s a sled covered in snow. It looks like wolves are making a meal of somebody.”

] He picks up the pace. Getting closer you see a pack of 5 white wolves picking and tearing at the corpse of an Axebeak and another… a Dwarf.

] Shent pulls his axes out. “Git!” He charges forward to scare off the wolves

[()]

] The wolves stop and look at the oncoming threat. They apparently decide not to fight for the rest of their meal and they run off into the white landscape. Shent turns the half-eaten corpse onto its back.

] Shent “Hlin! No no… Hlin.” He bows his head and places a hand on the frozen head of the female dwarf. “This is… this was… Hlin Trollbane of Bryn Shander. She was a close friend of my fathers. We must find him and arrange for burial observances.”

Dawndra] I look more closely at the body.

] You notice a dagger in the chest of the dwarf. It appears to be made of ice.

Dawndra] “Shent – look there. She was not killed by wolves. The dagger there… may I remove it?”

] Shent nods as he stands and steps back. Pulling the dagger from the body, you see that is indeed made of solid ice. You notice intricate designs in the handle and blade, as if carved by a craftsman. They appear to be runic symbols of some sort but you cannot tell what they mean.

Dawndra] “Do these symbols mean anything to you? Are they Dwarven runes?”

] Shent “No, not dwarven in the slightest. I can’t say I have any idea. Why would someone spend so much time carving ice this way?”

Dawndra] “I doubt this is mere ice.” I tap the side of the blade hard against the sled.

] The ice does not break – it feels strong as steel. Stronger maybe.

Dawndra] “Enchanted. Surely the symbols mean something and might help explain her death somehow.”

] The two of you load the body onto the sled and begin dragging it up the hill to the Bryn Shandor South Gate. The two guards wave you through without hardly noticing that you were pulling dead body into the city.

] Shent “My fathers house is by the East Gate… less than a mile from here.”

] There is a light snow falling and the cold ground crunches under every steps. As you pull the sadly-burdened sled through the city streets, you notice a wide array of buildings. Some are simple wood A-frame structures while others are circular – made with stone and mud walls and covered with steep pointed roofs. After a short while you enter what is obviously the main market district. There are a few tents with tables out front but most of the merchants appear to have stalls inside more permanent stone structures. The marketplace is busy with trade and commerce. Most folks appear human or dwarf, but you see a surprising number of halflings and a few other odd sorts for the far north. You turn east and almost reach the city walls when Shent directs the sled down a small walkway.

] Shent “Here we are. If you don’t mind waiting out here for a moment, I’d like to break the news of Hlin alone.”

Dawndra] “Of course. I will be right here.”

] He steps into the round stonehouse but re-emerges moments later.

] Shent “He’s not here, and he wasn’t at his market stall. Probably fishing… or drinking at the tavern. I will have to find him before I can do anything else.”

] With your help he pulls the sled around the side of his fathers house and covers it with a canvas. Then he invites you to stash your heavy gear inside the home in a storage room.

] Shent “I would have said my father was always glad to have company and you could sleep here. But perhaps not now. We will still portal back to the Kirn Kuldihr from here though. Your things should be safe. The folk in all of Tentowns considers father a local legend… and really he is. He has been in Icewind Dale since the dwarves first left Mithril Hall nearly 400 years ago. He was among the famed dwarven protectors of Tentowns when the barbarian horde threatened to wipe them off the map. Lost two sons in that battle didn’t he.”

Dawndra] “Barbarians? You mean the Tribes which put on the Frozenfar games?”

] Shent “The same, though generations of them have since passed. Things have changed. In fact, the Fray Games were started in Tentowns as a way to keep some peace.

Dawndra] “Sorry to hear you lost brothers to the conflict.”

] Shent “So was I. It was well before my time. I was born in the Spine a few years after Clan Battlehammer returned to Mithril Hall.”

Dawndra] “Forgive me, I know very little of the ways of Dwarves… but are you saying you have blood rights to live in Mithril Hall?”

] Shent “I suppose I do. Father was a blood member of Clan Battlehammer. He started Clan Spinedelver when they left – he wanted to stay where his sons fell.”

Dawndra] “Oh, so there is a whole clan of Spinedelvers then?”

] Shent “Was… far as I know, father and I are the only ones still alive to carry the name. He doesn’t talk much about it… but if you look through all the scrimshaw he has created, it tells the story pretty well. There will be time for stories later. I need to go and find him. You can wait here or explore the city some. I know you have your goals for this time – I will burden you with mine. You might ask Myrtle at the Rest – she knows everything there is to know and would help you for a coin or two. Geldenstag’s Rest is just across the way, near the East Gate. Also ask around the Northlook, near the North Gate.  Just watch your back in that place… and don’t extend any trust to Scramsax… the keep there… and perhaps… just to stay safe… do not exit the city gates without finding me first? I will meet you back here at Last Shadow.” Then he departs.

Dawndra] I think I will explore the city a bit first, get some orientation for things.

] You walk for a couple of hours and locate the inns and taverns, the armory and town hall. You find two different temples in town, one dedicated to The Triad and another to Amaunator. You explore the market square and spend a long while admiring all the artwork made from the Knucklehead Trout. Then you lightly browse the Emporium without finding any goods you really need to have right now.

Dawndra] I go to the Northlook tavern.

] Near the North Gate is the Northlook Inn. Stepping inside, you find it crowded and noisy. There are many dressed in full gear and weapons so you rightly assume they not local folk for the most part. Behind the bar is a human who looks to be mid-way aged. His facial expression is hard and dour and you assume this may be the Scramsax which Shent warned you not to trust much.

Dawndra] I go to the bar and place a gold coin on the counter. “Water please.” I ask the human tending the place.

] Scramsax “Water hardly costs a gp – got a copper? Or want some mush with your water?”

Dawndra] “Can I ask you odd question instead? I’m in Icewind Dale looking for kin. Have you ever seen another like myself in your tavern before?” I motion to my face and body.

] Scramsax “Now that you mention it, I don’t think I have… what do you call your kind?”

Dawndra] “I don’t even know that, but I am called Dawndra. I was told my kin might be from around the Frozenfar.”

] Scramsax “It would be a good bet. But you may have to go all the way out to the glacier or the giants hold to know. Wait… you know who might know… Myrtle over at the East Gate Rest. That woman knows all kinds of everything… even things she shouldn’t. Don’t tell her I said that.”

Dawndra] “Thank you, I will try there.”

] Scramsax “Sorry you didn’t get your gold’s worth.”

Dawndra] “Still – I appreciate your time and friendliness.”

] Scramsax “Ain’t every day I get paid fer being friendly… in fact it ain’t even every year. Good look to you.”

] As you turn to leave, you feel your leg bump into something. You look down to see a bald halfling fall to the ground. He is wearing a thick leather cloak over white furs. The skin on his face and head are blacked and distorted, as if recently caught in a box of fire.

Dawndra] “Sorry ser, I did not see you there.” I reach down to give a hand up.

] The halfling slaps your hand away. “Squawk off you mud hag!”

Dawndra] “No harm intended ser. I will repeat my apologies.”

] You notice his eyes are strangely blue and he attempts to glare you into oblivion. “You… will… pay! Mark it you jumbo jitslit! You will pay for this offense!” He storms into the back of the room and you hear him call a name “Kofa!” before his voice fades into the noise of the busy tavern.

Dawndra] “Jumbo Jit… !?!” I feel anger rustle in my gut “Well you can just go slurp slaad spit!” I tamp the anger down with a breath, like I was taught, and I make for the door before there is any more trouble.

] Just you are about to reach the door, someone grabs your robe and pulls you back. You turn to see a thick human woman, likely one of the barbarian tribes judging from her attire and demeanor.

] Kofa “You the giant who hurt my little friend?” she demands

Dawndra] “Look, it was an accident. I turned and…”

[()]

] Your explanation is interuppted by a fist flying towards you, which you instinctively roll away from.

Dawndra] “Hey!” I take a stance and Dodge action. “Step off sister! It was an…”

[()]

] She swings again but misses without you even needing to move – she is apparently deep in her cups. [Reaction Opportunity]

Dawndra] My patience wisps away and I return the blow

] You pop the drunk barbarian in the nose and she laughs as a trickle of blood runs across her upper lip.

] Kofa “You punch like a drunk kobold!”

Dawdra] “Your granddaddy’s a drunk kobold!”

] And she swings at you again – this time with all of her weight [()] but you sidestep and leave one foot out, tripping her. The barbarian crashes into a nearby table of dwarves. The entire tavern seems to erupt at that very moment – chairs and flagons and wet helmets go flying.

] All around you there is a bevy of violence. You are caught up in it. Roll either an Athletics or Acrobatics skill check

Dawndra]

] You dodge and roll, avoiding any damage.

Dawndra] “This is crazy! But you know… it could also be fun!” I join in, attacking unarmed

] You step in to punch dwarf who has a chair overhead in mid-smash. Then you side-kick the human he was about to hit. The mass surges towards you

Dawndra]

] You stop an onrushing half-orc by throwing a table in his way. A knee jab to a nearby barbarian misses but you follow it up with a snap kick which sends the smelly man flying. Someone casts a magical web over the section of the tavern you are in.

Dawndra]

] You smartly escape the webbing by throwing two nearby chairs straight over head, giving you time to dive and roll. Springing up, you clock a drunk patron with one hand and then grab another and throw him over the bar. You notice Scramsax there with a club cocked to hit anyone who comes near.

Dawndra]

] There is a flash of light and heat as some stupid releases some kind of flashbang spell. It explodes near your head, knocking you unconscious. You awake to find the debris of the brawl resting calmly. Laying unconscious on top of you is Kofa the drunk half-orc who started things. Her breath is beyond stink and right in your face.

Dawndra] “Ugh! Get your rot breath out of my…” I push her off of me. Suddenly realizing I’ve been out, I check my valuables hidden under my clothes.

] Your secret pouch is untouched and your ice pin still holds your hair. Suddenly there is an angry human with a club standing over you.

] Scramsax “You! Out! Now! You are banned!” he yells in your face as you sit up.

Dawndra] “I didn’t… but it was… oh dretch it. I’m going.” I step over smashed chairs to get to the door and exit. I head back towards the market center.

[()]

] You hear something behind, like ice scraping across stone and rushing up on you.

Dawndra] I jump forward and roll and attempt to land in a ready stance facing whatever is attacking me with my ice pick in hand. [Acrobatics Check]

Dawndra]

] You successfully roll and leap up into a fighting-ready stance – you take the Dodge action.

You see a large block of ice charging towards you. It is nearly 8ft tall and roughly humanoid in shape – legs, arms, a head – but is entirely ice. Well maybe not entirely… you think you see something inside the torso of the ice monster. It attacks you [()] but is awkward and clumsy about it [Opportunity Attack]

Dawndra] I take the opportunity attack – extending my ice pike to full length, I advance, putting my weight behind a thrust

] Your ice pike contacts the strange frost golem and bores into the chest area. You get a closer look at the torso and see a dark-skinned halfling encased inside the ice. You recognize him as the halfling who you knocked over at the bar just before the fight broke out.

Dawndra] “You! How many apologies do you want?” I take the Dodge action.

] The halfling and the creature are silent. The arms sweep and wave in the air and you see a wave of ice form and rush at you. [Dex Save]

] Dawndra

] You easily leap out of the way of the magical attack. Several people from the Northlook have come out to watch the combat.

Dawndra] I circle the ice man but hold my attack (Dodge)

] The halfling in ice charges again [()] but misses you [Opportunity Attack]

Dawndra] I take the opportunity and then unleash a full barrage

] Your attacks punish the ice suit. Chips fly away with a critical strike which you follow up with a spinning back kick. The whole suit falls onto its back and for a moment looks like a turtle flipped over – arms and legs flailing. The ice golem suddenly disapates and turns into steam, leaving the bald halfling lying on his back in the street.

Dawndra] I place the needle tip of my 10′ pike on his chest. “Do I have to kill you to have my apology accepted? I didn’t see you! I didn’t mean to knock you down! I am rhucking sorry! Okay!?!”

] The little bald man screams something incomprehensible and then says. “No! No apologies! You cannot treat Pakbak Cinderfoot like a nobody! No one will ever treat Pakbak like a nobody again!”

Dawndra] “You are not right Pakbak. Perhaps I should kill you for your own sake?” I look around at the crowd. “I did not start this!” I say to everyone watching. “This is the truth! I bumped into this strange little brute by accident and I apologized but all he knows how to do is take offense. Help me out here! What do I do?”

] There various answers from the growing crowd… “Kill him!”, “Spare the little guy!” “Two gold says she spears him!”  You hear Pakbak muttering something. [Intelligence Save]

Dawndra]

] Your head is suddenly spiked with some kind of disorienting energy. It feels like reality is ripped away from you for a moment. You take 1d6 damage (5hp). When you recover, Pakbak is no where in sight and crowd is laughing like they have been watching a jester at the fair.

Dawndra] “I guess I should have killed him…” I say to myself as turn to leave. “Freaky little cinder face…” I go back through the market and towards the East Gate to Myrtles Rest.

] The sky darkens and a sharp wind blows through the streets of Bryn Shander as you make your way back through the market and towards the East Gate. You arrive at the Geldenstag’s Rest just as a blizzard starts to form. Above the walls of the city, you see large chunks of snow flying nearly sideways across the sky. The guards have closed and secured the large gate doors of the East Gate.

Dawndra] I enter Geldenstag’s Rest

] The interior is warm, if exceedingly worn-looking. The commons are nearly full but the room is not loud. You notice that the majority of patrons are either humans or dwarves – most appear to be locals, dressed in simple clothing or utility leathers. A few turn to notice you as you enter but look back to their conversations. A thin grey-haired woman walks past you carrying empty flagon back towards the bar

] Myrtle “C’mon in dove. Can I get you something warm to drink?” she says with a smile

Dawndra] “Yes please. Do you have something without spirits? Tea maybe?”

] Myrtle “I’ve got a nice cider on simmer. It’s quite light on the spirits, but you might feel them after a few. I can also make you a hot peach soup that is perfect for sipping out of a mug. Its got no spirits at all.”

Dawndra] “Hot Peach Soup sounds perfect. Are you Myrtle?”

] Myrtle “Aye. That be who I am. What’s your name pet?”

Dawndra] “I am called Dawndra. I am here in town with Shent, Shenthrik Spinedelver.”

] Myrtle “Thaarnik’s boy? How is the chappie?”

Dawndra] “Well. He’s actually out looking for his father.”

] Myrtle “Thaarnik had his waking meal here as usual, but I’ve not seen him since first shadow. By the sound of whats brewing overhead, I imagine he will be running for home about now – if he ain’t already snug and cozy elsewhere. Go ahead and sit. I’ll be right back with your soap.” She goes into a back room.

] As you are sitting, you hear the voice of a young girl behind you. “So you know Shent hunh?” You sense a sharp, almost caddy edge to the question. She sits down in the other chair at your small table. She is a large human, nearly 7 foot tall. She has thick volumes of long red hair, wildly covering face and shoulders and chest (which is also noticably larger than average). She is smiling at you but something about the look in her icy blue eyes tells you to speak carefully.

Dawndra] “Not much really. I’ve only just hired him as a guide. I am called Dawndra.” I attempt a kind smile. “Are you a friend of Shent’s?”

] Samsam “Oh yes! We have known each other a long time!” she says possessively. “I am Samsam. So where is Shent ‘guiding’ you?”

Dawndra] “Well… here… to Tentowns. I am competing in the Frozenfar Fray Games next month and Shent is my guide for the duration.”

] Samsam “Oh. So you think you’re going to win?”

Dawndra] “I know I’m going to compete. I know I am going to test the skills I’ve spent the last ten years building. Surviving the games may be test enough.”

] Samsam “So you can fight hunh? I can fight too. I fought a crag cat once and I killed it. See look!” She pulls up her robes of fur to show you a mighty scar across her ribcage and belly. “Wanted me for lunch it did! But I stuck my thumbs in its eye” she demonstrates wildly… “and then got my blade into it belly and stabbed around until it weren’t hungry no more.” she violently mockes a repeated stabbing motion. “Maybe I should join the Fray Games too hunh? Wouldn’t Shent be impressed!”

] Myrtle comes up behind her with a steaming mug in her hand “Samsam… listen nectar, why don’t you get back to your chores and allow our guest some peace.” She sets down your Hot Peach Soup.” There you are pet. Get ya anything else?

Dawndra] Having learned this lesson early, I place two gold pieces on the table. “Actually, I was told you might be able to help me with a little knowledge.”

] Myrtle “Oh? Who’s accusin’ me now? And of what?” she says as she pulls on Samsam’s hair – reminding her she was leaving.

Dawndra] “No, nothing like that. Shent said you might know something about my kin. Actually Scramsax at the Northlook said the same, but both were very kind about the suggestion and spoke highly of your connection to the community here.”

] Myrtle “Don’t believe a word out of that Scramsax… but I am a leader in this community… in my own way… What can I help you with?”

Dawndra] “Have you ever seen someone like me? You see, I never have. I don’t even know what I am. I was told I might have kin out here in Icewind Dale somewhere and I’m just looking for clues.”

] Myrtle “Why I sure have! Although come to think… only once. It was about this time last year. She was coming out of that Calishites hideous monstrosity of a tent. I don’t know much more about her than that – but she was just like you… mighty and tall… very… womanly… human but with white fur like a beast. Her hair was just like yours too. In fact, if I had given it any thought, I would have thought you were her when you walked in.”

Dawndra] I fail to contain my excitement. “Really! This is wonderful! You are the first person I have met who has ever met another person like me!”

] Myrtle “Well, I can’t say I met her… I was just in the market and noticed her. You should go talk with the Calishite – Nim Bragos. You can’t miss that scarlet red tent of his, and if you did… you wouldn’t miss that monster he keeps on a leash.”

Dawndra] “Monster? On a leash?”

] Myrtle “Don’t mind me… I like a little exaggeration don’t I… He has a pet Bugbear. The thing is taller than you, and a whole lot less pretty. Still, I guess its done me no harm… not that I would give it a chance to. Nim Bragos and that odd sister of his travel the Sword coast… up and down… every year. Why… This is the fifth year in a row I’ve seen his tent in the marketplace init? Their market stand sells cloth and furs, but I’ve an intuitin’ that he deals in a lot more than warm garb. I’ve seen more than two adventurin’ types walking out of that unsightly tent counting through a large bag of coin.”

Dawndra] “Oh? He hires adventurers?”

] Myrtle “My first thought was just that he pays well for Yeti skins… but I wouldn’t be surprised if he was paying fools to plunder the crypts of them frost giants. That kind of thing is going to require some recompense… if you know what I mean… and all of Tentowns will end up doing the paying while the halfling skips away south.”

Dawndra] “Nim Bragos is a halfing then? Any chance he is bald with charred face and scalp?”

] Myrtle “What? Oh no… Nim Bragos is a fanciable sort… if a woman were so inclined… and rumor is that many in these parts are… inclined to supine… if you catch my meaning.” Someone across the room calls for more drink. “Be right there love.”

Dawndra] I push the 2gp towards Myrtle “I thank you very much. You have given me the only clue I have ever found. I will go talk to Nim Bragos to learn more.”

] Myrtle “With this storm, you can bet your tickles that everyone in the market is closed up tight. It should pass by morning…. If’n Auril is done pissing and moaning that is. Enjoy your soup – second helping is on the house.” She walks away to help the other customers.

] As you are finishing your Hot Peach Soup (which by the way is more delicious than promised) you see Samsam run out from the back.

] Samsam yells “Grangran! Where is my fathers sword? I need to practice!”

] You notice Myrtle shake her head slightly as a look of exasperation forms on her face for a moment. Then she smiles and turns…

] Myrtle “I’ll help you look for it later pet. Now there are chores to be done. Please Samsam… focus your lovely self?”

] Samsam “Ok Grangran!” and she bounces happily, like a young child, into the back room again.

Dawndra] I wish Myrtle a pleasant Nhyx and make my way across the street to Shent’s fathers place.

] The blizzard, even this close to the city wall, shoves you around a bit. Wherever your skin is exposed, it feels like tiny shards of glass are biting in. You arrive at Thaarnik’s house but there is no sign of Shent or his father. The firecove is cold but you see a stack of wood nearby.

Dawndra] I consider starting up a fire, but decide to wait a while. They may return shortly. And I find I actually enjoy the cold for a while – it bolsters my spirits in a strange way. I look around at the scrimshaw on display.

] You find yourself truly impressed by the art of Thaarnik. It is intricate and unique, but also – as Shent mentioned earlier today – it is masterful in its storytelling. You learn about many of the frost giants from the Sea of Moving Ice and the battles they had with the White Dragons within the Spine of the World. You see the long-ago battle for Tentowns told movingly. You see other such stories and find yourself amazed that Tentowns is still standing today.

Dawndra] I find a big enough space on the floor and sleep.

A Clue and a Mystery

] You are in Tentowns for the annual Frozenfar Fray Games which start in just over two tendays (Uktar 20). You intentionally arrived in Bryn Shander early to give yourself some time to explore and hopefully discover something about your past, maybe even meet another person such as yourself for the first time. You got your first hint that there are others who look like you when you were in Myrtles Rest last night. She directed you to a Calishite merchant named Nim Bragos who travels along the Sword Coast and is usually in Bryn Shander this time of year. She suggested you can find him in the market – look for a large red tent with a bugbear standing outside it.

] As you arrived in Tentowns yesterday with your guide Shent, you came across a sled whose dwarven rider was dead – due to a knife made of enchanted ice. The dwarf was Hiln Trollbane – a close friend of Shent’s father Thaarnik. When you arrived at Thaarnik’s house, he was not home so Shent left you to go look for him, saying he would be back by Last Shadow. He did not arrive.

] You awake to the sun peering in thru a small window in Thaarniks round stone home. There is no sign of Shent or his father.

Dawndra] I go outside to find a spot in the sun to practice Heavens Orbit for a while.

] You practice in the space behind Thaarniks round stonehouse. Off to the side, the covered sled which hides the body of Hlin Trollbane remains untouched. The cold air and the bright morning sun combined with your breathing practice enlivens you [+2 Ki]

Dawndra] After my practices, I ready my pack and hide my valuables and head to the market to find Nim Bragos.

] You walk towards the market with the East Gate at your back. As you near, you can smell the product of many food merchants. The market is busy this forecrex. You notice a large number of adventuring parties – armed to the hilt and provisioning for extensive excursions into the surrounding areas. The large red tent of Nim Bragos, as Myrtle said, is hard to miss – even set back into the north-west corner of the market.

Dawndra] I feel a surge of excitement for what is about to happen… All these years thinking I would never discover who I was… and to meet someone who might know… I walk over to the red tent.

] Standing outside the tent is a large bugbear… larger and taller than yourself by a little. He stands behind a set of open shelves which have all sorts of cloth goods, robes and cloaks, shirts and shawls. Some are finely woven and some are crafted from furs with thick white hair.

] Bugbear “You buy?” he says, lifting up the corner of some garment. “Best pelts.” he half-heartedly boasts as he points to a stack of thick white cloaks.

Dawndra] “No, I just…”

] He looks like he suddenly recogizes you and does a little head bow. “You wait” he says and then ducks inside the low entrance of the scarlet red tent. Moments later he crouches back out. “You enter.” he says, holding the tent flap aside for you.

Dawndra] “Thank you.” I step into in the tent.

] You feel like you just walked into another part of the world as step into the dry heat inside the tent. There are silken shawls hanging everyone and the rich smell of exotic spices fills your senses. In the center of the tent there is a ring of large cushions around a low table. Sitting at the table with his back to you is a bronze-skinned halfling with thick black hair. He stands and reaches for a brass pot in the center of the table and you notice that he is nearly naked – with the exception of a silky white loincloth which is not long enough.

] Nim “Shavisala! You are just in time for some White Dragon Black Tea. I know you like it.” He says with just a glance backwards at you. “Your item has just arrived! But I thought we would be sending it to you by…” He turns fully towards you, mid-sentence, offering a cup of steaming white liquid. He stops short as he realizes you are not who he thought. “Oh! Why you are not… Oh my… Please please, sit with me.” He places the cup of tea on the table for you. “I am Nim Bragos – world tradesman and purveyor of fine and exotic soft things. How can I serve?”

Dawndra] “I am called Dawndra. I am here because I am looking for my kin and kind and was told you might know someone who looks like me. Is this Shavisala… is she like me?”

] Nim “Oh dear… I wish I had not her name fall from mouth… but yes. She is, as you say… like you. Except for your age, you look nearly identical. I was not aware she had kin, but looking at you, I would think it obvious.”

Dawndra] I place a stack of gold pieces on the table “I have spent my entire life without the truth… not knowing who or even what I am. Please tell me how I can find this Shavisala?”

] Nim “Please.” he says scooting the coin stack back towards you… “I am no greedy bar keep with a mouthful of rumor. I do know this… Shavisala has been searching for a daughter… many years now. You would not, by any chance, have a rather… special… hair pin? One made seemingly of ice?”

Dawndra] My heart leaps, and at the same time I feel a bit suspicious. “A hair pin?”

] Nim “Yes. Shavisala has had me searching for it… several years now and I’ve had no luck… Which is frustrating because usually… well nevermind me. Really, she has had me searching for the one wearing the hair pin. She has one herself – fantastic article really – I was amazed when she demonstrated. It is made of ice, but hard as adamantine. It never melts and with a whim, she can transform it into sword or spear. Her lost daughter would be carrying the same hair pin she told me. Now normally, I am no people finder. I hunt objects… special objects… and I’m reknown for being good at finding such artifacts. That is how Shavisala and I met. She is among my best customers. She is quite a collector of arcane artifacts and also among the most powerful druids to have ever stepped a foot in Icewind Dale.”

Dawndra] I pull my hair pin and let my hair fall. “Does this mean Shavisala is my mother?” I hold out the pin and transform it to sword length.

] Nim “My my… does it ever. Four years now I’ve been searching and here you just walk in. I would say that does indeed prove that you are the lost daughter. That… plus your striking resemblance.”

Dawndra] “Tell me… where is my mother? How can I find her?”

] Nim “She lives in the Spine, in a stronghold called Alzvar. I’ve not been there myself but I’ve had many deliveries sent there by messenger. In fact I have one to send even now – I’ve been looking to hire a messenger to deliver something to Alzvar. The Red Drakes, my usual messengers, have not yet returned from the last delivery.” He pauses dramtically… and then stands up quickly, his loincloth flapping “I’ve had an idea! You can deliver the item to Alzvar! If you are the adventurous type that is… ” He looks you up and down smiling. “Of course you are! And of course you will be wanted to go there anyway.” He turns towards the back of the tent and yells “Norli! We need you out here.” He throws a slipper against the curtains.

] From behind the wall of hanging silks steps a female halfling. Her long hair is a soft black which flows over her red silken robes. She smiles and nods as she makes eye contact with you.

] Nim “This is my sister Norli.” He throws his arms up in the sky “We found her Norli! May I introduce Dawndra – the lost daughter! We need to get her outfitted for a journey to Alzvar.”

] Norli remains silent as he begins to look you over. She tugs at your arm to indicate she would like you to stand up. Then she produces a long woven string with beads knotted into it. She has you hold one end as measures your legs and arms and torso. Then she tugs you back down to a sitting position on a cushion. She has to stand on your legs to get face to face close to you. She looks deep into your eyes as small hands softly hold your temples. Then she leaps down and makes a short series of hand motions to Nim.

] Nim “We can have you outfitted by tomorrow.”

] Norli stamps a foot and motions something again to Nim.

] Nim “Nhyx tomorrow. You can leave for Alzvar on Uktar 1 at first light.”

] Norli does more hand-talking.

] Nim “Norli says to bring your dwarf friend? He will need some outfitting too.”

Dawndra] “I am traveling with a hired guide.. He is in fact a dwarf. How would you know that Norli?”

] Norli just points to her eye. Then she turns and rushes back behind the silky wall.

] Nim “Norli has certain special abilities… she is able to measure not only your dimensions, but your needs. It’s not clear if she can actually see into the future, but she can anticipate dangers.”

] The desert-like heat inside the tent is becoming uncomfortable for you.

Dawndra] I shift my clothing “Whew it is abundantly warm in here. Myrtle said you were a Calashite?”

] Nim “Did she now? How is my friend Myrtle? I’ve not had the occasion to… er… visit… Myrtle yet this trip. Don’t let her Grandmotherly bit fool you… she likes some heat herself! But yes, I am from Calimshan… the Scarlet City will always be my first home. I can’t take the cold so Norli found a way to improve our tent walls. I did say she is rather gifted… did I not? You might have noticed the cloth displayed to the public is the finest quality of material and weave. We have other goods inside which are variously enchanted. We don’t really know how she does it… but Norli is specially gifted with the magic. She can take a spell scroll and weave it’s magic into a bolt of cloth and it somehow becomes available to its wearer. Say… if you happen to come across any spell scrolls on your way to Alzvar and can’t make use of them yourself, I will pay you good coin for them.”

Dawndra] “Can I ask… how far is this Alzvar? I need to be back in Bryn Shander by Uktar 20. I am participating in the Frozenfar Fray… and while I will certainly be traveling to find this Shavisala, I may need to wait until after the games.”

] Nim “Oh, you will arrive at Alzvar in 2-3 days depending on conditions. Even if you stayed there a full tenday, you would be able to travel back in for the start of the games. Tronk is going to compete this year …” He leans towards the front of the tent and yells “Aren’t you Tronk!?!”

] Tronk poking his head in to the tent, “Yes Nim?”

] Nim “You will be competing in the Fray Games this year, won’t you?”

] Tronk grunts an affirmation and says “Tronk win” somewhat flatly before turning back.

] Nim “He is so excited about it! ”

Dawndra] “I can tell.” I drink down the milky white tea.

] As the hot liquid reaches your belly, you feel yourself energized (2d6+2 = 11 Temp HP)

] Nim “Now… Normally I pay a delivery service 22gp per day, and assume 6 days for this trip. However… as it seems you would be making the trip regardless… and if I know Norli, she is going to insist that we do not charge you for the outfitting… I will even throw in some enhanced tea to bolster you during the trip… perhaps we can call it even?”

Dawndra] “Of course. If anything, I feel I owe you some recompense for helping me find my kin… my own mother even. I am a little afraid that I still sleep and this encounter has been but a dream.”

] Nim “The reverse is true as well… Shavisala will certainly favor me for the events of this day… and the favor of Shavisala is worth much gold. Did I mention she was a powerful druid? Alzvar is the home of a clan of Frost Giants… was… actually… but I will allow her to tell you her stories. Just know that tentowns would not be here today were it not for your mother… and she insists that the towns people not know the fact.”

Dawndra] “Could I be any more excited to meet her?! I think not! You have my gratitude and, for whatever it is worth, my favor as well.” I stand to make an exit.

] Nim “We shall see each other again tomorrow. We close up before Last Shadow, but Tronk will keep a watch for you.”

] As you are standing up to leave, Tronk again pokes his head into the tent.

] Tronk “Hocus here.”

] Nim “Ah! What timing! Please show him in after our new friend Dawndra exits.”

] Tronk “Dawndra leave.” he says, holding the tent open.

] Nim “Don’t mind Tronk. He is not being rude… well… at least not as rude as he sounds. He may seem simple but he doesn’t miss a thing – especially once you put a battleaxe in his hands. See you Nhyx tomorrow Dawndra.”

] As you step out of the sweltering heat of the tent, the icy air of Bryn Shander feels like an assault. Standing there at the merchandise tables is a male elf dressed in full leathers which have been extravagantly dyed white as the surrounding snow. His shoulder-length hair is copper-blonde. He looks up at you and you see his eyes are similarly copper in color – almost like deep fire.

] Hocus “Greetings!” He says with a lavish bow. “We are unmet it seems. My name is Hocus.”

Dawndra] “I am called Dawndra. Well met Hocus. ”

] Hocus “Dawndra! What a beautiful name for a beautiful woman! Perhaps later we can share drink at the Northlook and get more fittedly acquainted?”

Dawndra] “I’m afraid I’ve already been banned from the Northlook.”

] Hocus “Beauty and trouble all together! I like it! We should find you another place to get banned from then. I was thinking of switching rooms to Kelvin’s Comfort anyway. It is just there.” He points to inn on the far corner of the market area. “Should you wish to share some time, and perhaps some Firebrandy, please ask after me there – Hocus the Custodian – as I am known. But now there is business and I wish you all the pleasant pleasantries dear Dawndra.” He bows once again but his eyes never leave your person until he steps into the scarlet tent of Nim Bragos.

Dawndra] I am suddenly hungry… I look for a merchant selling something hearty.

] Your keen smell leads you to a stand with a large simmering pot of something delicious.

] Merchant Cook “Good waking friend. You look hungry. A bowl of Sapidi Elk Stew is only 5 silver. I’ve got some fresh Bloodhawk Eggs too – rare in these parts. 1gp each while they last.”

Dawndra] “Your stew smells good. Just what I was hungry for I would say.” I put a gold down. “The spare is yours.”

] The merchant thanks you kindly as he fills a deep iron-cast bowl with the stew and hands it to you. There are three small standing tables which are a bit short for you, but functional. As you are just finishing the last few chunks of meat and vegetables, you hear a familiar voice behind you call your name.

] Samsam “There she is! Dawndra! Hey Dawndra!”

] You turn to see Samsam hurrying towards you, her bright red hair flying wildly in the breeze and her clothes hanging loosely from her oversized body. She is dragging Shent by the arm. He looks tired and embarrassed but smiles when he sees you.

Dawndra] “Shent! How glad I am to see you safe. I feared the storm took you last night.”

] Shent “It would take more than a storm… but we did stay the night in Targos rather than travel. I have learned some things about Hlin which we need to discuss.”

Dawndra] “I have learned some things too! My mother is here! Well not here in town… but she lives in the Spine, in a place called Alzvar!”

] Shent “The frost giants stronghold? That Alzvar?”

Dawndra] “Yes, though apparently the giants no longer call it theirs, or are not there to call it theirs… whichever… we will find out soon. We travel there Uktar 1. ”

] Shent “Ok, we can do that. That gives us some time to deal with another matter.”

] Samsam “Shent’s going to get the Ice Rune Killer! Aren’t you Shent!?! What are you eating Dawndra? That smells good. Can I have some?”

Dawndra] “Good to see you again Samsam.” I dig out another gp and give it her. “Have some Sapidi Elk Stew… on me. Want some too Shent?”

] Shent “Why not? Stew for me too Samsam.”

Dawndra] “What is this about the Ice Rune Killer. Did you find out who killed your fathers friend?”

] Shent “Not exactly. But I did learn there have been four other murders. All of them found dead with the same ice dagger in their heart. Hlin had told my father she was investigating the murders and had put a bounty out – 100 gold for anyone who discovered and stopped the killer. She didn’t live another day after that. This part should interest you though… two of the victims were to be judges in the Frozenfar Fray. Hlin was on her way to Dougans Hole to warn another judge that his life might be in danger… she did not get far beyond the South Gate as we know.”

Dawndra] “So she thought someone was killing the judges of the games? Why I wonder… maybe they will be replaced with bought judges?”

] Shent “There is surely a lot of gold in stakes. But cheating in the games will get you killed faster than competing in them drunk off your whiskers. It might be just the opposite of what you say… perhaps these judges got caught taking bribes – that could get one cut into bite-sized pieces too. There is something else. I just found it in Hlin’s pocket… it’s a list of towns and dates. Look – it matches up with the four of murders. And here… in the corner she wrote ‘Merchant Caravan?'”

Dawndra] “What does that mean?”

] Samsam “Oh! I know!” She says, setting Shents bowl of stew in front of him. “There is a group of merchants which all travel together from town to town! Maybe the killer is traveling with the merchants?”

] Shent “Right. Its not safe to travel alone – and as a group they can afford to share the cost of wardens.”

Dawndra] “Then we need to discover the schedule of this merchants caravan and see if it matches up with the killings… then, if it does, find out who in the caravan is the killer. Easy.”

] Shent “We know Hlin was killed early yesterday… so let’s ask around the market to see if any of the merchants are with the caravan and can confirm it was here yesterday.”

Dawndra] “You guys finish up that Elk Stew. I will get started asking around. Meet back here.”

] You visit several merchants, being generous and offering 1gp for some information. You discover that there are actually two groups which generally caravan around Tentowns together. One of them has been in Bremen and Targos for nearly a tenday. The other left Bryn Shandor for Easthaven yesterday – not long before the storm swept in.  More than one merchant mentioned they were going to join the caravan to Easthaven but saw the skies had whispers from Auril and decided to stay behind. They are worried the caravan may not have made it safely to Easthaven.

] Meeting back with Shent and Samsam, you share what you learned.

] Shent “I heard the same about the Easthaven bound group. I learned there are one or two other merchant companies which don’t join the caravan but have full-time muscle of their own.  One of these is a shady bunch… other merchants have been victim of their lazy extortion threats… ‘We will protect you if you pay.’ they tell them… ‘we will protect you… from us!’ Can you believe the gall. I say we put them on our list even if they do not harbor Hlin’s killer. What say you?”

Dawndra] “Are you worried they will pull this on your father? It is a reasonable worry… I say yes. However we have a schedule to work within. Tomorrow we will receive some outfitting and wil leave early the next morning for Alzvar. We should be back inside a tenday, leaving another completely open before the Fray Games.”

] Shent “We should tell the Speaker Duvessa what we know. Then we travel to Easthaven to investigate the caravan.”

] Samsam “I’ll get us some Axebeaks!”

Dawndra] “I think you want to talk with your Grandmother Myrtle first Samsam.”

] Samsam shrugs “Ok… Then I will get us some Axebeaks!”

] Samsam hugs you bruskly and then hugs Shent… with a prolonged and somewhat awkward hug, and then skips through the market towards East Gate.

Dawndra] “I’m afraid to ask but…”

] Shent “I’d rather you didn’t. She has taken a liking to me it is true… but do not get any ideas about what that means. She is still a child… and twice my size. I’m not that kind of dwarf.”

Dawndra] “Oh, well I was going to ask how are we going to ditch her behind. I cannot see trying to keep her safe from whatever peril we find beyond the gates.”

] Shent “Absolutely we are going to ditch her! You were tactful with the recommendation to speak with Myrtle – I would have choosen something more… well… sneaky I suppose. But absolutely she would not be safe and I don’t want to find ourselves on Myrtle’s bad side… no one ever wants that.”

] You go to the Town Hall just south of the market. It is still well before the Crex midday. Entering the large one-story building you are directed to the office of the Speaker, Duvessa Shane. She is a young human female with long brown hair and a hardened face. She recognizes Shent as you approach.”

] Duvessa “Greetings. How can I help you Shent? ”

] Shent “We are here about the recent killings… the Ice Rune Killings.”

] Duvessa “I see. Let us sit. Can I get you a hot cupper?”

Dawndra] “I am fine thank you. We think there might be a connection between the killings and the Frozenfar Fray Games.”

] Duvessa “Oh? I heard one of the victims was a judge for the games. But why do you think they are connected?”

] Shent “Two of the victims were judges. I’m not yet sure how the other two are related but Hlin was also killed yesterday – just after putting out a bounty.”

] Duvessa “Hlin is gone!? I did not know. I am so sorry for you father, I know they were close friends. So how do you know she was killed by the Ice Rune Killer?”

Dawndra] “We found her at the bottom of the hill outside the South Gate. The ice dagger was still in her chest. It is an enchanted thing… no mere spike of ice.”

] Shent hands her the paper notes from Hlin’s body. “She had this on her. She was investigating the possibility that the killer travels with a merchant caravan between towns. We are heading to Easthaven after this to see if we can track the killer down.”

] Duvessa “I don’t know if Bryn Shander can match what Hlin was offering, but you will be rewarded if you can solve this mystery and stop the killings. If it keeps up, all of Tentowns may see panic. The Fray Games may be not bring the crowds or their gold to the towns.”

Dawndra] “A reward would be appreciated, but that is not our concern. We think it too much of a coincidence that two judges have been killed. Either someone is trying to replace these judges, or… possibly…. Punish them. We will try to learn the motive of the killer if possible but perhaps some caution is warranted in selecting their replacements.”

] Duvessa “Yes, I think I understand. Speaker Danneth would be one selecting replacements. If you are heading to Easthaven, please share your news with him as well? Let him know someone may be trying to fix the games. We don’t have another council meet until just before the games start up here in Bryn Shander. Now I’m sure the two of you are quite capable… but you are only two. I’m sure we could arrange to have a few members of the town militia join you.”

] Shent looks to you “She is not wrong… some extra blades could improve the odds of success.”

Dawndra] I look to Speaker Duvessa “Thank you, we will accept the offer if it can be arranged quickly. We would like to be underway before Crex.”

The Cliff Caves of Xover

] You are in Tentowns with your hired guide, Shent, for the annual Frozenfar Fray Games which will begin in two tendays (Uktar 20). Earlier in the day you discovered that, not only are there other people like yourself in Icewind Dale, but you received information that your own mother lives here and has spent many years looking for you. You agreed to deliver a package to your mother, since you would be going there anyway, from a merchant named Nim Bragos. You will pick up the package and directions to where your mother now lives – a old lair of Frost Giants named Alzvar.

] Shent discovered that the death of his fathers friend,Hlin Trollbane, is connected to 4 other deaths in the Tentowns and that at least two of the victims were slotted to be judges in the Fray Games. Hlin had a suspicion that they serial killer might be traveling between towns with a caravan of merchants. After alerting Speaker Duvessa to the concerns, she was able to provide two militia men of Bryn Shandor – Melthor & Harbert. Melthor is a young human who is eager to help track down and stop the serial killer. Harbert, on the other hand, is a few years older and a lot unhappy about being assigned this detail. He seems to believe it is his role to point out all the reasons why the journey is unnecessary and all the ways it is doomed to fail.

]  The four of you have mounts (Axebeaks) prepped and you have gathered whatever gear you believe will be helpful. Samsam found you as you passed by Geldenstag’s Rest where Myrtle, her “Grangran”, is the owner and keep. She was sad to let you know she had to stay behind. There were chores to be in done at the inn. You offer farewells and depart by the East Gate.

] You make good time given that the Eastway is covered in more than a foot of fresh snow. The wind picked up about an hour into your travel and, although the skies overhead are clear, visibility is limited as you travel the white tundra landscape. Another hour of frozen snowflakes blasting your face goes by, and then another half-hour when you reach the crossroads of the Eastway and the road between Redwaters and Caer Dineval. Here you find a temporary shelter made of stacked stones around a natural outcropping of rocks. There is an oft-used firepit and a large stack of wood left behind by someone.

] Shent “Rest is warranted. We have just over an hour still to Easthaven – maybe a bit longer if this wind keeps up. I wil start us a small fire so we can warm a bit and melt some snow for water.”

Dawndra] “Not that it is my business, but how is your father? Was he okay that we left Hlin behind his house?”

] Shent “He is heartbroken. I think he and Hlin had become more than just friends. And of course he would rather be the one to honor her with a burial rites so we were right to leave her body where we did. Not too many years ago, he would have been bursting with fire to join us and avenge Hlin, but I assured him that the task of vengeance was in good hands and that he could carry the charge of mourning.”

] Melthor “It is justice we pursue, but I see no reason why justice and vengeance cannot sometimes be friends. The only justice for a serial killer should be a shallow grave.”

] Harbert “Where do you think you are Melthor? Baldurs Gate? Waterdeep? Out here in Tentowns, you are probably drinking ales nightly alongside serial killers and worse. Justice will find its own way in Icewind Dale. Shent and Thaarnik have the rights, and while I would rather be sipping rot gut at Ogdens at this moment – I’ll be glad to help cut down killer just to call it done.

Shent] “Right and wrong don’t often factor into anguish, do they friends? But there is more at stake than vengeance… The Fray Games may be compromised and this serial killer may just be a cheat – a daring one, but a cheat still.”

Dawndra] “Cheaters!? Let the Yeti’s have ’em!” I say, remembering the phrase from Saarvins daughter Roller.

] Melthor, leaping to his feet and drawing his sword “Yeti’s!?” is looks around wild-eyed.

] Shent “Relax friend. It was just a phrase. Not a common one, but a clever one.” He says with a chuckle. “And yes, I agree cheaters can be fed to the yetis.”

Dawndra] “The way I see things, you can either compete or you can cheat – you cannot do both.”

] Harbert “Hellspit… them damn games are a nuisance! I still can’t believe Dougans Hole are allowing them mucksucking barbarians into their town. Easthaven I get.. But Redriver folk must be getting a payday.”

] Melthor “All of Tentowns is getting a payday Harbert – in the form of peace with the tribes. Not to mention all the gold brought in by visitors.”

] Harbert “Gah… peace brings its own cursings don’t it.”

] Shent “My father fought in many of the wars to defend Tentowns from the tribes, and he carried an iron hatred for the barbarians for many years, but even he is glad that no more sons or daughters are being lost to conflict between us and them. The Fray Games have helped Tentowns in his view.”

] Harbert “We all heard plenty the stories of Thaarnik the hero of Tentowns… don’t need to hear ’em again do we. And I’ll shut my yapper about it all… Let’s just go kill a serial killer… shall we?”

] After a short rest, you continue on your way to Easthaven. Just as Lac Dinneshere is starting to come into view, Shent halts everyone.

] Shent “Trouble just ahead… Off the road… this way.” He leads you around a raised mound of snow and pulls his mount into a low squat beside him. “Giants… and heading towards us.” he whispers.

] Just as Melthor is about to explain how he saw nothing, three large men, each nine foot tall or more, appear walking towards you on the Eastway. They all carry spears and one has a large keg hoisted to his shoulder. The other two drag a large wagon sled behind them by its dogless tackle.

] Shent “If we are lucky, they will pass by and not notice our fresh tracks in the snow. They seem to have good spoils so they probably won’t care to fight us for meager pickings.”

] They continue their travel, the wind-whipped snow quickly covering your tracks and obscuring their view of the ground beneath them. Suddenly from behind you, you hear a high-pitched yell, like a little girl practicing a war cry. You see an large female charging on an Axebeak  – her brilliant red hair wild in the wind. She draws a long blade for attack.

Dawndra] “Samsam!”

] Shent “Senseless girly! She’s gonna get herself dead!” He jumps up and draws his axes.

Dawndra] I extend my hair pin and run into range for a throw

] Your Ice Pike flies true in the severe wind and strikes the giant carrying the large keg. With surprising speed, he turns and without even dropping the burden on his shoulder, he chucks a spear back at you [()] and hits you for 10 hp.

] Harbert “Bad idea this, but whats to do?”

] He charges one of the other giants (verbeeg2). His longsword finds giant flesh before he leaps around the wagon. Shent confronts the keg-carrier [()] slicing at his legs with both axes. The third giant (Verbeeg3) hurls a spear at the charging Samsam [()] but misses (critically) and his spear sinks somewhere into deep snow.

] Samsam leaps from her running axebeak and flies through the air with a shining blade leading the way in her attack against the keg carrier [()] but she completely misjudges the effort involved and falls to the ground beside Shent. Melthor flanks the lead (Verbeeg1) and thrusts an attack [()] with critical success into the side of the giant.

Dawndra] I retrieve my weapon from the back flank of the ugly man and attack

] You pound away at the bleeing giant. He yells in frustrated anger and raises the keg high overhead. He slams it down on [()] the prone Samsam [()] successfully, nearly crushing her rib cage. Another (Verbeeg2) turns chases after Harbert [()] but his spear attack misses as Harbert dodges to the other side of the wagon. He pops up in front of the wagon and, seeing the backside of the giant who has taken the most blows, he tries another stab and run manuever [()] with success  before he swiftly runs back around to find cover with the wagon.

] Shent yells “He can’t take much more surely!” as he slashes [()]

] The giant is bleeding excessively and does appear about finished as the third (Verbeeg3) steps in, placing himself between the severely injured giant and your attacks. He kicks at [()] Shent [()] successfully, his large foot catching Shent directly in the chest. Samsam manages to get to her feet and with another ear-piercing yell, attacks the giant (Verbeeg3). Surprisingly, she scores a critical hit, her sword ripping into the belly of the maruader. Melthor is insistent on dropping the one most hurt [()]. He slips around the defence and plunges his blade directly up into the throat of the giant. Melthor is suddenly sprayed with a shower of blood as the giant falls to its knees and finally face-first in the snow. The other giant lets out an anguished cry and says something in a language you cannot understand yet somehow seems familiar to you.

Dawndra] “One down!” I yell as I attack (verbeeg3)

] Your attacks are relentless and faultless against the giant.

Dawndra] “We don’t need to kill you. Run and we won’t strike again!”

] The giant circling the wagon appears to consider your statement [()] but he does not run. He turns back again to Harbert and stabs at him [()] missing. He lets out angry words as Harbert expertly dodges and closes distance to make is own attack [()] successfully.

] Shent “The lady means it, run and we won’t follow.” he says as he launches his attack [()] cutting open the side of the giant with two well-targeted swipes.

] The bleeding fellow looks to his fallen friend lying face down and [()] says out loud in Common “Relent! Relent! I will run!” and he starts off northward into the snow. Shent does not take the opportunity attack.

] Samsam “Five against one now! Let’s get him!” she charges in with her blade [()] striking the giant for a fair amount of damage

] Melthor is suddenly behind the giant in attack form [()] but he loses footing in the deep snow and fails.

Dawndra] I square off with the remaining giant – my ice pike trained on his chest. Taking the Dodge action I say “Relent now or die badly.”

] The giant man again considers [()] this time he drops the spear raises both hands. “Okay! Relenting!” He slowly backs away and once confident you will keep your word, turns and runs toward the other retreating giant.

] Shent “Foolish child!” he says to Samsam. “You could be dead now! We could all be dead now! What were you thinking?”

] Samsam “I saw you getting ready to ambush the marauders -I was thinking that I was helping.”

Dawndra] “We were hiding, hoping they would walk by without noticing us.”

] Samsam “Why would you do that? You are heroes! They were Verbeeg bandits! ”

] Shent “We are not heroes but we are smart enough not to pick dumb fights.”

] Melthor “I’m with the ravishing Red here, in fact – we should have put them all down – justice would demand it. And just when it looked like we had our victory, you offer them reprieve?”

Dawndra] “Forgive me. I am an outsider here. Where I am from, justice and murder are not so easily confused. I had no reason to kill them unless they gave me one. And if you can look outside your own perspective for a moment… we were the ones who attacked them – I was the one to draw first blood.”

] Melthor “They were obviously bandits stealing this wagon – we had rights to stop them.

Shent] “Possibly so… and thank you Melthor for changing the subject. Where did this wagon come from?” He climbs into the back.

] Harbert “This keg… its label says its full of Flamebeards Firebrandy! Help me out here Melthor. It would be a shame to let it all go to waste.” He props up the keg. “Anyone got a cup?”

] Shent, stepping back out of the wagon… “This appears to be a merchant wagon. I’d say there’s a strong chance it’s from the merchant caravan we are chasing. We should hurry and follow the tracks before this wind blows them away.”

] You follow the sled tracks along the Eastway for a short while. Soon you come upon three other sled wagons. They all have had their contents torn apart and they lie scattered in the snow. You also see the bodies of twenty sled dogs. Five lay scattered while the other remain tied into their tackle and are mostly covered in snow.

] Samsam “Oh! The poor dogs! They killed them all!” she breaks down in the snow weeping over the loss.

] Shent “I don’t think the Verbeeg killed them. It looks as though they were all frozen to death long before the wagons were raided. It seems quite certain we found the merchant caravan which left Bryn Shander yesterday… but why would they abandon their dog teams like this? We are only an hour away from Easthaven… they must have met with trouble other than the storm.”

] The wailing cries of Samsam become louder than wind around you.

Dawndra] “It is a tragic loss. You must love these creatures very much.”

] Samsam whimpers “Yes… yes I do. They all just died all tied together with no chance to save themselves. Its just cruel.”

Dawndra] “We don’t know exactly what happened here but it is a sad thing to witness.”

] Melthor “So are we thinking the serial killer did all this? Killed the entire caravan? Where are their bodies?”

] Shent “Where indeed. If they were simply seeking shelter from the strengthening storm – they would have taken their dogs with them. If they were attacked by Yeti or cragcats, we would find pieces of them – and a layer of blood under the snow. Maybe a dragon swooped them all away… one by one… but it seems doubtful. No… they walked away from their wagons and their dog teams as if they were spelled to.”

Dawndra] I look around “But where would they go?”

] You can see the flat expanse of Lac Dinneshere to the East from where you stand. Along the Western edge, wrapping around the Northern corner of the lake are large cliffs. To your South there is only miles of rolling snow mounds and the Spine of the World looming large in the background.

] Shent “The Cliff Caves of Xover. If I had to find shelter… desperately… Like really desperately… I would go to the Cliff Caves of Xover.” he says pointing towards the edge of the lake.

Dawndra] “Xover? Who or what is that?”

] Harbert “A Frost Giant. Or so the stories say. Some kind of Shaman with a crazy cult of Frost Giants bent to his every word. Rather than fighting dragons like every good Frost Giant should, they started worshiping them.”

] Shent “No one goes near the Cliff Caves… they are supposed to be haunted. You will hear why once we get closer. It would take a strong man with iron balls to walk willingly into these caves. No offense to those without balls… of course.”

Dawndra] “It sounds like we are going to find out just how hard our balls are then. What do you think Samsam… want to prove we’ve the spirit of Iron Balls – if not the dangly things themselves?”

] Samsam straightening up says “My balls are the ironest!” She unsheathes her sword and holds it high in the air, letting out a yipping war cry.

] Shent “I believe you! I believe you both… but Samsam… I think you need to spend more time training to use that sword before leaving the town walls. Seriously… I don’t think it is safe for you.”

Dawndra] “What can we do? Its not safe to just send her back either. A lone traveler is easy prey.”

] Shent “I will grant you that.”

] Melthor “I will protect you Samsam.”

Dawndra] “Samsam… if you stay with us, you must listen and follow our lead. No more charging attacks, no more war cries (as impressive as they are). You are young and lack the training to keep yourself alive out here. I can teach you starting now but only if you agree to be my student. What do you think?”

] Samsam “You will be my teacher? Oh yes oh yes! I will do as you say and follow where you lead!”

Dawndra] “Precisely? Without faulter or fail?”

] Samsam “Pre-cy-sleey! To my very best ability.”

] Shent “Ok, just remember, I am a guide, not a guard – and especially not a babysitter. ”

Dawndra] “Noted Shent. Guide away to these spooky caves.”

] The five of you mount and ride your Axebeaks downhill around the southern side of the cliffs. As you reach the bottom, the ground becomes slick ice where the lake has frozen over. Towering over you is 100+ feet of rock wall. Icicles the size of Frost Giants hang from the upper reaches of the cliffs. In the rock face – which extends nearly a mile along the lake shore and wraps around the north western corner – you see many cave openings, some just 20 or 30 feet up from the lake shore, others much higher. The lower ones are huge, reaching up 15 to 20 feet at the opening. From the moment you stepped around to the front of the caves, you began to hear the most bone-chilling, soul-shrinking wails and moans coming from deep inside the caves. They sound unnatural, ethereal – otherworldly. You see the faces of Samsam, Melthor and Harbert all freeze over with fright.

] Shent “Trust me – it is truly just the wind. It sounds very different with only a light breeze about but today’s heavy gails are putting on quite a show for us. Look for any signs the merchants walked through here.”

Dawndra] “I trust you Shent… but if you don’t mind… I’m readying my weapon. You know… just in case…” I extend my pike to full length and begin looking, cautiously, along the edges where there is safe walkway.

] About 100 feet to the north you find a small pack dropped to the ground and left behind. Inside are a few personal items and a small locked chest. There are some rations and a full wineskin frozen over.

Dawndra] “Here! Someone left this behind… but it makes no sense why.” I look up to see if maybe it fell while someone was climbing.

] There is a large cave opening 30 feet above where you stand. You see a brief flash of movement as if something ducked back inside the cave as you looked up.

Dawndra] I point at the cave “There! I think I saw something in that opening.”

] Shent “I see nothing now… but let us move quickly beyond range.”

Dawndra] I carry the pack with me and continue to search forward with increased pace.

] After some distance, just before the cliff wall begins to curve around the lake, you find a large ground level cave with a thick stream flowing out of it – most of its edges are frozen over but you can still see the water flowing. There are slick ice-covered walkways on either side of the stream entering into the cliff face. The size of the tunnel is impressive reaching 20 to 25 feet high and at least 20 feet wide.  You notice that you can see a long distance into the tunnel, as though there are internal sources of light.

Dawndra] “I suppose we enter here yes? What might we find do you think?”

] Shent “I cannot more than guess. Yeti’s and Ice Trolls love places like this. I doubt Frost Giants would return here – but I say we run hard and fast if we encounter one. We are no match…. Certainly. Beasts like Cragcats and Direwolves make these caves home as well, and they can be trouble if they outnumber us. Beyond that… anything is possible.”

Dawndra] “Comforting… at least we know we cannot expect to know. Samsam… stay right behind me. Keep quiet and watch each step closely.” I enter the caves.

] The walk way is extremely slick and it feels like you are sledding rather than walking. As you skate deeper you realize that no only is it not getting darker, it is getting oddly… bluer. The ice itself seems to almost glow with a blue light. You catch a slight whiff of burning firewood and cooking meat from deeper in the caves. The scent quickly grows stronger.

Dawndra] “Smell that? Someone is cooking meat. ”

] Shent “You are right – might be a good sign. Perhaps the merchants we seek have holed up in here for some reason.”

] As you wind around a wide corner in the tunnelway, you see a pedestal holding a large wedge of ice. Inside the ice you see a dancing blue flame – the light of which  seems to leap to all of the surrounding ice.

Dawndra] “This is interesting.” I risk a quick touch.

] The ice wedge containing the blue flame is exceeding cold and burns your finger. (1HP)

Dawndra] “Ouch! It is so cold it burns. I guess we won’t be carrying it around with us. Ever seen anything like this before?”

] Harbert “Can’t say I have. It is obviously a magical flame.”

] Melthor “Obviously!” he says with a snark.

] Samsam “Sure is a pretty flame isn’t it. I think it would look just lovely in the Rest. Grangran would like that.”

] Shent “With no wizard among us to confirm, we should assume it is far more dangerous than it looks. These things usually are. Let’s get moving… that smell of cooking is making me hungry… hopefully there is plenty for sharing with us.”

] The tunnel winds again and the sound of a falling water grows louder. Just ahead, the tunnel ends and opens up into much larger cavern. At the opening is a short scarp of about ten feet high. Standing on either side of the flowing stream at the base of the waterfall are two humanoids. They are oddly still – as if frozen in a guard stance. If they see you, there is no indication. They each wear some minimal armor and a rounded helmet and pauldrons that seem to absorb the blue light. Draped down their torsos are blue designless tunics. Although in size and shape, they appear human, you notice that their skin is the blue-green color of a frozen corpse. They have both hands in front  and wrapped around the hilts of sleek greatswords with points at the icy ground.

Dawndra] I find a ready stance – as much as possible on the slick ice. “Samsam. Hold the back.”

] Samsam “Covering!” she says loudly – raising her fathers longsword towards the tunnel entrance. “Nothing will pass!”

] The confident exuberance in her voice echoes throughout the tunnel and, almost as if an enchantment swept through your group, you all feel emboldened. [Inspiration]

] Melthor “They are frozen! Long dead and frozen!” He approaches the left guard somewhat cavalierly, and points his sword at the chest of the frozen guard.

] “You don’t want to do that.” you hear a bleak voice say. Suddenly at the top of the waterfall, standing in the center of the flowing stream, you see another humanoid. This one also has corpse-colored skin but he is wearing only draping robes of blue, and he is not still. His hands pull together  and he looks over your party.

[()]

] Melthor “No I don’t” He backs away

] Shent “He’s a mind worm!” He hurls his off-hand axe at the bluish man atop the waterfall. [()]

] The axe hits and you see a splash of silver metal like blood spray from the creature standing over you all. Samsam fights the urge to charge unbridled, but takes the Dodge action instead. “Covering!”

Dawndra] I jump into the flowing stream where my footing will be better than on ice and I attack one of the blue swordsmen. (1)

] Both of the frozen men spring into apparent life as you begin your attack. Your target attempts to block your ice pike but fails. You see it also bleed silver metal.

Dawndra] “What bleeds metal?!”

] “You want to protect us. Guard us.” The icy voice says [Wisdom Save]

Dawndra]

] You feel an uncontrollable need to defend these bluish men from your own party. You turn your back to the creatures to face Shent and the others, holding your pike like a quarterstaff, ready to repel any attack. Melthor joins you, facing Harbert and Shent and Samsam in a defense posture.

] Shent “Troll spit! What a pizzle-pinch! Pull back! Plug your ears and pull back to the lake!”

] The two guards return to their standing position, swordpoints in the ice and faces frozen like the dead. Harbert heeds Shents words, sticking his fingers in his ears and backing away from the waterfall.

] Samsam “What’s happening!?! We can’t just leave them! Dawndra! Dawndra snap out of it!” She throws down her sword and begins to run towards you.

[()]

] Loosing her footing, she falls hard into the icy stream, splashing both you and Melthor with a wave of water. [()] The shock of the frigid water in your face awakens you from the charm enchantment. [()] but Melthor continues to stand guard with the icemen.

Dawndra] “Samsam!” I pull her up out of the water. “Shent is right, we pull back.” Helping Samsam, we back away from the waterfall.

] As you are backing away, you hear the voice of the robed one say “You are hungry! Join us for a hot meal by a warm fire.” [Wisdom Saving Throw]

Dawndra]

[()]

] Samsam “Lick my knickers! You… you… vilemouthed kacksy! ” she makes some obscene gestures as well but picks up her sword and continues backing up with you.

] Once outside the tunnel you regroup and discuss your options.

Dawndra] “We can’t just leave Melthor behind. ”

] Harbert “Meh. He’s probably having a nice hot meal by a warm fire.”

Dawndra] “You believed the mind worm? Then why did you not join him?”

] Shent “No… we need to rescue Melthor… and my axe. I can’t believe I just threw it like that!”

] Samsam “A warm fire would be nice.” she says visibly shaking from the cold – her clothes still heavy and dripping.

] “Up here!” you hear a voice say. In one of cave openings above – where you found the abandoned pack earlier, you see a young half-elf waving you up. “There is a fire pit here and some wood.”

Dawndra] I walk closer “Who are you?”

Jynelor] “My name is Jyn. I am a holdling of Bastlo Boonlin.”

Dawndra] “A holdling? What is…”

] Shent quietly interupts you “A slave… a holdling is a purchased person.”

Dawndra] “Thank you Jyn. We will join you. Is this pack I found yours?”

Jynelor] “Yes, I dropped it while climbing up and was afraid to go back for it.”

Dawndra] I pull a rope from my own pack. “I will climb up first and help the rest of you.” [Athletics Check]

] You skillfully climb the 20 feet up to the cave entrance where Jyne is waiting. You use your rope to help the others up and minutes later are you all huddled around a stone pit in the back of the cave watching Shent make fire. The howling moans of the wind are much louder inside this cave. You notice there are a dozen or more round bore holes in the rock walls and ceiling.

Dawndra] “We came here Jyn, looking for everyone from the merchant caravan. I assume you were among them? Tell us what happened?”

Jynelor] “Yes. We were returning to Easthaven when the storm struck. We almost made it… we would have made… except for this strange blue-skinned man that appeared suddenly in front of us. I swear he was a ghost or some spector from the dead. He offered us shelter, well not exactly… he suggested we wanted to find shelter. Suddenly everyone in our caravan were just blindly following this bald corpse creature here to the caves. I followed Lord Boonlin without a word because that is all I am allowed but I knew they were all under some spell. Why it did not get me too, I can’t say.”

] Shent “It’s the elvish in your blood lad. Them mind worms have a hard time charming elves.”

Jynelor] “Oh? Well I suppose these odd ears had to have some benefit to me. The rest of my story you probably figured out – I climbed up here as the rest of the mindlessly followed into the cave you all just came out of. I don’t suppose you saw any of them alive?”

Dawndra] “No, at least, not yet. We also encountered the bald blue man – three of them actually. They have charmed one of our number and we have to retrieve him.”

] Shent “And my axe!” he grumbles out the side of his mouth.

Dawndra] “We need an alternate plan of attack. We can’t let them turn us against each other. Plus they hold the high ground – getting up the sides of that waterfall would be tenious so we would have to take out the two below first – or keep them busy long enough to climb up and take out the ‘mind worm’ as Shent calls it.”

] Shent “I call it what it is. You are right however, we need a different plan. There at the waterfall is the worst possible footing to fight. I don’t know that we could draw them out into the open – I got a hunch they wouldn’t fall for it.”

] Samsam “Then we sneak up behind them! Pown! Zang!” she makes sweeping combat motions and then hunches back down and stares into the fire. “I hope Melthor is okay…”

Dawndra] “I have to admit, I like Samsam’s plan the best. Maybe one of these other caves connects to the larger cave we saw? Maybe even this one?” I get up and start pushing at the cave walls to find a weakness.

] Samsam “You called this man “Lord” Jyn… if we find the merchants at all, would you rather we found this Boonlin dead? I’m only curious of course.”

] Jyn “I think I see your question… Lord Boonlin is not a warm man, but neither is he a cruel master. He originally bought me out of Luskan as a servant to care for his infant daughter. Her mother died in birth and Lord Boonlin, well, he did not have within himself to take her place. It has been my joy to be keeper to Thabitha these twenty years. She is a wonderful lady and I would hate to have to inform her of her fathers death… and certainly I would never want leave the Boonlin house.”

] Shent “The life of a holdling is not always bad. Often is… but not always.” He stands and walks towards you Dawndra. “Perhaps you need to push a little lower my dearest giant.”

] The two of you begin pushing together in the same area and eventually you find a spot with some give to it directly north of the firepit.

] Shent “Here! Lets put our shoulders to it!”

] With a couple of combined slams, the rock gives way to another large tunnel. Daylight fills the tunnel from the east and it grows darker towards the west.

Dawndra] “Let us hope it connects and we have a chance to sneak up behind your mind worm. If we enounter more swordsman… I say we swarm them fast – one and then another. If you remember, the bald one did not appear right away… it is my guess that they called him. But if we see him, he must be our first target else any of us be turned again. ”

] Shent “Got it! Samsam… do you want to stay here and protect Jyn from any incoming dangers?”

Dawndra] “I owe you my life Samsam. Although it did not go as you planned… still it was your heart that saved me. But Shent is right, Jyn may need you and we will need to be highly tactical in our approach.”

] Samsam draws her sword “You are safe with me Jynjyn!”

] Shent “Wish us good luck!”

Dawndra] “Luck!?” I suddenly remember my coin of Tymora and pull it out. “Let us ask Tymora herself for some… yeh?” I flip it

Dawndra] “The Lady blesses us!”

] As soon as the words leave your mouth, you feel a mighty rumble throughout the caverns and you hear what sounds like a massive collapse of snow and rock somewhere nearby.

] Shent “What the dretch!?!”

] Harbert “Sounds like a collapse. I think you got yourself a backwards coin, or Tymora got herself cross at us… for some reason.”

Dawndra] “I don’t know what to make of it honestly… but the Elders say the Gods ain’t called Gods for no reason.” We follow the tunnel East.

] After about 50 feet the tunnel opens and you have before you a natural rock bridge crossing over a stream that travels North to South. The bridge leads to another smaller tunnel. From the North, you billows of dust and snowflake and rightly assume the collapse happened in that direction. To the South the stream winds a bit and pours into a much larger cavern. You see another of the strange pedestals holding a chunk of ice with the blue dancing flame trapped within.

] Shent “Unless my directions are broke – there is cavern we saw atop the waterfall earlier.”

] Harbert “Should we cross the bridge and see what is over there first? Or drop down and follow the stream?”

Dawndra] “Best not leave the unknown at our backs.”

] Shent “Agreed – it might be exactly where we were going to end up anyway. Let’s cross one by one… just in case the bridge is not as strong as it looks.”

] The three of you slowly cross over the ice-covered stone bridge. [()] Shent goes first and navigates it successfully. [()] Harbert crosses confidently. [Acrobatics Check]

Dawndra]

] You all enter the tunnel on the far side of the bridge which proceeds east 30 feet before opening up into a large cave much like the previous. There is a long-cold firepit in the center and three packs stacked against the far wall. You notice the ghostly sound of a wailing woman is much quieter in this chamber. Shent has found a dagger of blackened metal near the firepit and he pulls it from its sheath to admire it.

] Shent “Dwarven made… I daresay this is an Ironmaster blade! Made of adamantine no less. What a treasure!”

Dawndra] “Nice find.” I go over and inspect the packs.

] They each include some standard items along with aged rations. In one of them, however, you find a stack of papers bound together with twine. The writing within appears to be dwarven.

Dawndra] “Hey Shent, can you read this?”

] Shent “This page reads ‘These caves are sacred to Frost Giants. The carvings on the wall suggest they would come here to sacrifice themselves to the dragon Winter Fang.’ and here they found a deep pool with a mirror bed. Within the pool are a dozen or more corpses of frost giants.”

Dawndra] “A ‘mirror bed’? What is that?”

] Shent “No idea. This page says ‘The wind is truly frightening… sounds just like a wailing woman… but becomes even more terrifying during a storm.’ We pretty much knew that already… but listen to this… ‘Hunger is playing tricks on us all. We smell the aroma of a hearty stew cooking somewhere in the complex of caves.’ The last entry reads ‘The wailing wind transformed to singing tonight. I heard what sounded like a granny crooning a lecherous tune. The song ended with shrill laugh – utter dread sunk its spiny teeth into my bones. Ye gods! That horrible cackle! We leave at first light whether the storm has passed or not.'”

Dawndra] “Either they left their packs behind… or they never left.”

] Harbert “Its worse than that… the smell of cooking stew… and a horrible cackle! That can only mean… ”

] Both Shent and Harbert say it at the same time… “a hag!”

] Shent “Of course this means… that smell of meat cooking earlier… ugh!”

Dawndra] “You are saying… the meat smell *was* the merchants we are looking for?”

] Harbert “Precisely. We best hurry to kill a hag if don’t want to be smelling Melthor’s bones soon.”

] Shent “I fought a hag once. Near Raven Rock. Barely survived that expedition didn’t I. Don’t trust your eyes, or your ears… and never make a deal. They always want to make a deal. I don’t how how such ugly mouths can produce such pretty talk… but don’t be swayed… hags are all evil and always… and no deal is worth letting it live.”

Dawndra] We go back to the bridge. I use my rope to let Shent and Harbert down to the cavern floor and then climb down myself. We make our way East towards the larger cavern.

] The stream flows into an expansive cavern where it spreads out into a thin covering over sheets of ice. The ceiling is a spectacular sight – huge upside down spires of ice hang down, all of them glowing blue from the nearby pedestal with the ice flame. The eastern wall has a large opening leading to a tunnel. You spot, on the far south east side, the top of the waterfall where you previously met the blue skinned men. You so not see anyone from where you are currently.

Dawndra] I point to the tunnel and whisper. “That must be where we are going.” We cross the frozen cavern to the tunnel.

] The tunnel floor much less slick than the wide pool you just navigated successfully. It is narrow but over 20 feet tall. It winds further eastward until it opens into another large cavern. The ground suddenly drops 20 feet down into a large pit of icy rock. Down inside the pit you see Melthor and 6 others. They are all huddled on the west side of the pit directly across from the remains of a frost giant sat down with its back against the east wall of the pit – as if it were watching them. The frost giant is largely bones but there are still chunks of ancient leathery skin hanging from it. It wears a shiny metal helmet that looks like it is fresh from the smiths polishing. You notice one eye socket is completely empty but the other is not. There is a large unmoving eye trained on the captives. In the hand of the frost giant is an immense war axe – rusted and hoary.

] Harbert whispers down into the pit “Melthor! You live!”

] All of the captives of the pit look up at you and then panic – looking back at the dead giant. They point as if to warn you about it. It remains still however.

Dawndra] I drop a rope down into the pit. “Hurry!” I say just loudly enough.

] It takes several minutes, but all of the merchants and Melthor make it safely to the tunnel.

] Melthor “That frost giant…. It animates. I don’t know why it is still right now but it was like a cat with a box full of mice. It grabbed one of us and lifted him to the ledge on the far side where more of those blue men took him away.”

Dawndra] “Timing is showing us favor… let us not waste the boon… hurry, this way.” We cautious look out into the cavern for threats.

] You see no one. You all slowly and quietly cross the frozen pool and return to the bridge. You are able to give most of them a leg up far enough that they can climb on the bridge at the west tunnel while Shent stands watch. You have just lifted Harbert up when Shent speaks your name and warns you to ready yourself. From the north you see the bald blue man in robes coming towards you. He almost glides across the ice of the frozen edges of the stream.

] “You want to see what I have to show you.” He says as he nears within 30 feet of you, but neither of you are affected by the magical suggestion.

Dawndra] “Suck troll titties!” I close distance and attack

] You gain momentum and then slide into your attack, spearing the chest of the threat. You then use the leverage to repeatedly kick it before swiping your ice pike away in a spray of silver mirror-like metal. Its eyes begin to glow overwhelmingly – the same silvered color [Wisdom Save]

Dawndra]

] Shent calls out “Here come the other two!”

] Melthor appears on the bridge above with a large rock over his head. He hurls it towards the blue man in robes [()] crushing his skull. The Hypnos Magen explodes in a burst of fire and smoke. In its place you see a pile of disconnected bones and a pool of silvery blood which out into the stream and travels down towards the two incoming magen – greatswords drawn.

] Shent “Let’s start with the cute one!”  [()]

] The tricky terrain under Shent’s feet causes him to miss both attacks. Meanwhile Harbert is climbing back down from the bridge above. Shent comes under attack by both of the magen. They attack viciously with their greatswords [()] but he somehow manages to allude every stroke. It is almost comical how his awkward slips and slides on the wet ice actually work in his favor.

Dawndra] “I’d say you are the only cute one here Shent…” I attack the one on the right (magen1)

] You again manage to lodge your pike into the torso of the attacker and then use the leverage against him. You slide yourself towards him and kick him off of your spear. Methor is throwing another large rock from the wall you broke through earlier. Merchants have carried several down through the tunnel to help the combat. [()] the rock splashes nearby, almost hitting you instead of the blue man.

] Shent “Shit sniffer!” he attacks again (magen1) [()] this time successfully.

] Harbert also joins the fray [()] flanking the same magen, he cuts it half-wise and it also explodes leaving behind a pile of bones coated with silvery blood. [()] The other magen targets Harbert from behind with a punishing slash.

Dawndra] I flank and attack with all I’ve got

] You masterfully assault the magen doing critical damage. The others swarm it until it also explodes.

Dawndra] “Whew! Time to go…” I help Harbert back up to the tunnel and turn to Shent. “Ready?”

] Shent “My Axe! I can’t leave my axe. Its not far… and the guards are gone. Get everyone to safety. I will meet you out in front of the caves.” he runs back into the large cavern and disappears around the bend.

Dawndra] I go to the entrance of the tunnel and start lowering folks down.

] Samsam went down first to help catch everyone. Soon everyone is on the frozen shoreline of Lac Dinneshere but there is no sign of Shent.

Dawndra] “Lead these folks back to where we found their wagon. I will go check on Shent.” I go down to the lake-level cave entrance and begin walking in towards the water fall.

] You hear a splash ahead and then running steps in the stream. From around the bend in the tunnel you see Shent attempting  quick exit.

] Shent seeing you says “Run! Giant!”

Dawndra] I turn back towards the entrance and run. [Dexterity Save]

Result Table

Dawndra]

] You successfully speed you way back to the shoreline with Shent on your heels. Behind you the thunderous footsteps of a frost giant skeleton echoes in the tunnel. As you exit the caves you see the group of others are nearing the end of the cliff face on the far south eastern side of the lake.

Dawndra] I ready my weapon and turn to face the oncoming threat.

] Shent “Keep running, we are no match!” He yells as he races past you.

] The skeleton reaches the opening of the cave and stops. The stench of rot assaults your senses and you see it still has chunks of flesh loosely attached to its animated bones. It carries a great axe so large you doubt you could even drag it. It stares you down with one empty eye socket but in its other sokcet, a colorful eye is whipping around wildly searching the area. You feel a sudden blast of cold energy [Constition Save]

Dawndra]

] You hear Shent yelling at you to run. His short legs are skating him across the ice at surprising speed.

Dawndra] I follow Shent and run.

] The frost giant skeleton does not pursue and does not exit the cavern tunnel fully. Minutes later you are reunited with the group. Hours later you arrive in Easthaven with the surviving merchants.

Frostfalls Pass (Part One)

] You are in Tentowns for the annual Frozenfar Fray Games which starts Uktar 20. You returned from Easthaven today to Bryn Shander. You and your guide Shent were tracking down a lead about a serial killed (the Ice Rune Killer) who has been leaving bodies around Tentowns – each with a magical dagger made ice. You suspect that the killer iss traveling with a merchant caravan as it went from town to town and you went to Easthaven yesterday to find this caravan. Instead you found that they had been lured away into the Cliff Caves of Xover where there were being killed for stew, one by one. You managed to save 7 out of 12 and see them safely to town. Jyn, the half-elf holdling, was saddened to discover that his Lord Booglin was not one of the survivors and that he would have to tell the Lady Thabitha Booglin that she had lost her father.

] When you returned to Bryn Shander, you learned there was another Ice Rune killing while you were gone. A body was found behind the Northlook with the signature dagger in his chest. This latest victim is not a judge for the Frozenfar Fray Games as two of the previous victims had been, but he was the winner of last years games. You renewed your suspicions that the killer was traveling with Torgs Merchantry and spent the afternoon attempting to determine their whereabouts during they latest killing. They were, in fact, in Bryn Shander and left early this morning by the East Gate according to millitia posted there as guard. You will have to track them down later because you have another appointment to keep.

] Earlier you received information that your mother lives nearby and has spent many years looking for you. You agreed to deliver a package to your mother, since you would be going there anyway, from a merchant named Nim Bragos. You and Shent are arriving there pick up the package and directions to where your mother now lives – a old lair of Frost Giants named Alzvar. Tronk, the Bugbear bodyguard to Nim and Norli Bragos, waves you inside the overly heated tent.

] Nim “Dawndra! Just on time you are! Allow me to gather Norli… Norli!” He yells into the back of the large tent. He grabs a small pillow from around the table he is lounging at and throws it against the wall of colorful materials hanging from the tent ceiling. “Norli! The lost daughter has arrived. You will have to excuse her…  ears don’t exactly work right you know.”

] Norli pokes her head out from the silk wall and expresses excitement at seeing you. She ducks back for a moment and then comes running out with several small items in her hands. There is a wide strip of fine red silk and three small bags – just a bit larger than your average coin pouch.

] Nim “Three? I thought you were only making two cloaks?”

] Norli makes a show of looking around behind you as if searching for another of your party. She sets the items down and begins to sign words to Nim.

] Nim “She says there should be three of you. The archer is missing.”

Dawndra] “Archer? We don’t…” I look to Shent… “Could she maybe be talking about Saarvin from Fireshear?”

] Shent shrugs “Don’t see how. He was not even sure he was going to compete this year – and it is still two tendays away.”

] Norli makes more signs, these are descriptive and quite obvious… she demonstrates a tall person with long crazy hair and, with a clever flare, indicates an exceedingly large bosom.

Dawndra] “Samsam? That’s got to be a description Samsam.”

] Norli affirms with a point and a large nod.

Dawndra] “But Samsam is not going to Alzvar with use. She is still just a child really.”

] Shent “Yea, we were glad to be rid her just today.”

Dawndra] “Well that’s not fair to say – not of me least – but she is hardly able to to protect herself and needs much training before a journey into the Spine would even be an option.”

] Nim “Norli insists that this Samsam will be going with you. This red band is for her. It is, believe it or not, an archers blindfold. She must wear this over her eyes and when she draws back on a bow, her ability to target and fire will be aided by the enchantment in the blindfold. ”

] Shent “Has Samsam ever even held a bow?”

] Nim “My sister confident about this, and I’ve learned there is little else in the realms I can trust so much as Norli’s feelings about things. Now… about the cloaks.” He hands you each one of the small pouches. “These are just what you need for your time in Icewind Dale. They are made from the hides of Yeti – you will not experience any cold while wearing them, I assure you. You could sleep in the open among the Spine peaks and be warm. They also have an enchantment which makes you nearly invisible among snow and ice.”

] Norli  begins to sign something else to Nim.

] Nim “Oh right… they also mask your scent. The things which will hunt you in these parts usually do so by smell. While you are wearing these – their nose will be blind to you.”

Dawndra] I open up the pouch. “How is there a cloak inside this coin pouch?”

] Nim “That is the best part. Norli just perfected these sacks. You won’t believe it.” He grabs the 3rd pouch from the table. “Ma a ka na bino” he says as he open the pouch and it expands to a large round blanket with a thick grey-white woven cloak with yeti fur. “Isn’t that great! Now watch… Ma a ka no sima” He wraps the edges and the whole thing shrinks back down to a small coin pouch. “You will have to memorize the command word else… to open, ‘Maakana Bino’ say it with me a few times…. Now try it youself.”

Dawndra] “Maakana Bino” I open the pouch

] It expands and you see a large yeti-wool cloak, the fur around the shoulders is white with large patches of dried blood stains.

] Nim “Please forgive the blood stains. The yeti cloaks we display out front are pure white but only because we can bleach them with dyes. For Norli’s enchantments to work, we cannot use any dye’s. I assure you however, you freely receiving very costly gifts! The cloaks alone would each sell for two thousand gold apiece – and that is the post-haggle price. The sacks, well I have not priced them yet… but a true Bag of Holding will easily sell for 500gp  – if you can even find one. Granted these are not quite as useful as a Bag of Holding, but anything you can fit in the sack will compress down to pouch size. Oh… I should warn you not to put any living thing inside… if you did, they would not be living any longer. And the Archers Blindfold! That is easily another 1k gold. Probably much more in the big cities.”

Dawndra] “Wow, I am overwhelmed by your gifts! Our thanks indeed.”

] Nim “Your favor is all we need. Well… There is one more thing. And we might need to throw in a bonus something for you… but I need to ask you to attempt to find the Red Drakes as you journey to Alzvar. Well, actually… I need you to attempt to find the package which the Red Drakes were delivering for me. You see… Shavalisa, your mother, is a very good client and one I wish to keep very happy. I sent another artifact to Alzvar over a tenday ago, a powerful amulet I picked up for her in Athkatla. The Red Drakes are my usually delivery crew in Icewind Dale – they are quite capable and know the way to Alzvar as few others. Its been over a tenday now and they should have returned already. I fear something may have happened along the way – especially given that storm we saw blow through the dale. I simply need you to keep a watch for them as you travel. If you find them, or more specifically, if you find the package they were delivering, please ensure it arrives safely to your mother? Oh… don’t try to open it. That would be bad for you. Only Shavisala can open it.”

Dawndra] “How will I know I have found the right package?”

] Nim “Right. Good question. Well it is a blue sack about so big.” He motions with his hands. “Oh… it will look just like the one we are sending with you. That is easy… but also – just so you can verify it… You will find Norli’s embosser. Here – just like on your cloak here.”

] He shows you the inside of the yeti cloak. On the bottom corner of the grey and white wool material, you see a round relief print in the cloth. ‘Norli the Weaver’ it reads around an abstract image of loom.

] Nim “Anytime she enchants a fabric, you will find this embosser. Now… Please give me a minute to prepare the package you will be delivering?” He stands and walks back behind the curtains.

] Norli is fitting the yeti cloak around Shent

Dawndra] “It looks good on you Shent!”

] Shent “I wish I had one of these years ago. My grandest appreciations to you Norli. We will ensure the task is completed and if we can find these Red Drakes, we will finish their task and see them to safety.”

] Nim returns as Norli is jumping up onto the table to pull your cloak around your shoulders. He gives you a blue sack, telling you not to attempt to open it yourself. The artifact within is very valuable – Shavisala paid thousands to acquire it. Only she can retrieve it from the enchanted sack. He also gives you detailed instructions for reaching Frostfalls Pass and, from there, to Alzvar.

] Nim “Let me send with you something special. Norli has warmed you from without… allow me to warm you from within. Grick Egg Breakfast Broth! Simply a measure to some hot water and it will warm you throughout the day (4d4+4 Temporary HP every 4 hours until sunset – package includes 15 servings)

] After saying your farewells, you exit the balmy tent and are walking through the market.

Dawndra] “So… shall we see about Samsam?”

] Shent “You know Myrtle is going to reject the idea… what are we going to tell her? Some mute halfling prophet told us Samsam had to join us?”

Dawndra] “I did offer to train Samsam… perhaps Myrtle will agree if we tell her it is part of her training?”

] Shent “I’m still not certain I want Myrtle to agree. The girl is a delight share brief company with, very brief… but crossing Frostfalls Pass with her? I’m not sure I can take it.”

Dawndra] “She obviously has feelings for you, and of course, anyone can see why.” I smile broadly at Shent. “but a young girls feelings are flighty. With a little training and discipline, she will be able to control those feelings. And I said I would be her teacher. What do you say… Shall we pick up a decent bow and full quiver for her while we are here in the market?”

] While you are crossing the Bryn Shander marketplace towards the Bowyer, you happen to notice the mad halfling with the blackened and scarred face and head. He is yelling fanatically at a merchant over something.

Dawndra] “Quick, let’s go around the other way.” I steer clear of Pakbak Cinderfoot.

] Shent “What? Why?”

Dawndra] “See that little angry man with the burned-up face over there? I had an unintended conflict with him. That is why I am banned from the Northlook… but all I did was bump into him and knock him down. I apologized immediately but he was in a mood to take offense, and believe me, he took plenty!”

] Shent “At his height, even I might overlook him and knock him down!” he laughs

Dawndra] “But he should not be dismissed… he attacked me outside the Northlook after the brawl was ended.”

] Shent “Brawl? I missed a bar brawl at the Northlook? Ogre bells!”

Dawndra] “Yeah, well he started it – or rather he made his lackey barbarian-wench start it.”

] Shent “That little guy has a barbarian wench?”

Dawndra] “Treated her like a servant… maybe she is a holdling? Anyway… outside the tavern he gave me a serious challenge in combat. He was wearing some kind of ice suit. I didn’t even know it was him at first. He was surely formidable with whatever kind of magic it is. Even after I destroyed it, and I had the threat of death at his throat, he was ultimately able to best me – mesmerized me for a moment. I should have just killed him… at that moment he seemed like a pitiful child and offered mercy but I should have stuck him like a sick pig. It seems I never know for certain… I finished a young kid outside the Cutlass a few days ago… that seemed needless in hindsight… I should have shown him mercy. But Pakbak Cinderfoot I should have…

] Shent “Look out!” he pushes you aside as a beam of cracking energy tears between you.

] Pakbak “You! You bumble-hussy! You titan’s tart! I am still going to kill you for your incivility against Pakbak Cinderfoot!”

] He casts another attack [()] which you easily dodge. The market place erupts into chaos as people race to find cover from the conflict.

] Shent “Eldritch Blast! He cast Eldritch Blast! In the marketplace! He is mad!” he pulls his axe and blade

Dawndra] “Wait! He is only trying to provoke.” I step towards Pakbak “This is not the time or place Pakbak! Contain your offense!”

] Pakbak “Kofa! Come wet your blade!”

] From behind a market stall, the large barbarian woman with braided black hair and strikingly green eyes comes flying. She brings her heavy sword swinging down upon you [()] but you sidestep it with ease.

Dawndra] “Well at least you appear sober this time Kofa. Look we don’t have to fight, there is nothing to fight about!” I pull my hair pin and extend it for battle (Dodge) “I have no reason to kill you, and I don’t want a reason.”

] Kofa “I have a reason to kill you poppy… I’m bored.” she swings again [()] recklessly, giving you an opportunity attack.

Dawndra] I react and then press an attack

] Kofa gives you a opening and you exploit it fully with two devasting stabs into her torso with your 10′ needle and follow them with a snap kick under her jaw. Her eyes gloss as she begins to bleed profusely but anger overrides sense. She lunges away from you but attacks deftly with a one-handed back swing attack [()] and hits you solidly (9 dmg).

Dawndra] I take the Dodge action “Kofa! You will not survive this! Stand down and live!” [Persuasion or Intimidation Check]

] Kofa’s face softens a bit and you can sense she is considering your words. You see her look down and slap a hand over the blood pouring out of her gut. You hear Shent say something behind you and before you can process it, another blast of magical energy is hurtling towards you [()] and you leap and dive to escape it. [()] Kofa has an opportunity for advantage but does not take it.

] Shent “Marsh Muck!” he runs after Pakbak and disappears from your view.

] Kofa “You really could have killed me.” She says, dropping her sword to stop the bleeding. “Why so cowardly?”

Dawndra] I reach for my tin of healing salve. “Allow me to stop the bleeding, then we can talk?”

] She submits, tentatively. Within moments after apply the salve, she has stopped bleeding and has regained energy. You see Shent return, shaking his head. He motions to you that he lost the halfling.

Dawndra] “Now, about this coward business… I am not afraid of you, and I’m certainly not afraid to kill you. However I strive to not kill unless I must. I don’t even know you Kofa, but I believe strongly that it is better to be your friend than a witness to your death.”

] Kofa “Who has friends? No one I know!” Though her words are harsh and sarcastic, you see something else in her green eyes.

Dawndra] “I do. I have many friends where I come from. Some are my teachers and some are students, but all are my friends and I would not live any other way. This Pakbak is obviously not your friend… how does he have any say over you? Are you a holdling?”

] Kofa “Slave is the correct term.”

] Shent “Surely you can break the bonds, why don’t you.”

] Kofa “Don’t know… food, shelter… Pakbak keeps in my cups… His company is better than roaming the glacier alone at least.”

Dawndra] “The fellow seems a bit dotty in the noggin… if you don’t mind my saying. I meant him no offense and yet he relentlessly seeks my doom. I spared him once, I won’t do it again. I hope you and I can spill cups instead of blood the next time we meet.”

] With silent eye contact and a genuine handshake, she retrieves her sword and disappears into the returning crowds

] An hour later, the three of you depart Bryn Shander by the South Gate. Samsam was exceedingly thrilled to be included in the journey over Frostfalls Pass. Myrtle, her “Grangran” was surprisingly willing to allow her to join you. (She said something about her regrets for not having better prepared Samsam for the dangers of the dale and expressed special gratitude to you Dawndra for having agreed to be her teacher.)

] As you pass through the gate, you notice that both Harbert and Melthor have the gate watch this morning.

Dawndra] “Good waking friends. I see they put you right back to it?”

] Harbert “I almost wish we were still in the Cliff Caves of Xover. We did let Speaker Duvessa know that Easthaven militia may need our help to flush out the hag who’s made herself at home there.”

] Melthor smiles big “Samsam! I am pleased to be seeing you again so soon. Where are you off to now?” his eyes gazing on Samsam.

] Samsam “Frostfalls Pass, in the Spine. We have got an important mission! We are going to find Dawndra’s mother!”

] Harbert “I’ve heard of Frostfalls Pass… dangers hidden behind dangers… so I’ve heard. You should hire a few more blades to join you – if you were smart.”

Dawndra] “Probably good advice Harbert. Time is short however. We should be back within a tenday – all gods willing.”

] Samsam smiles with some flirt “I will come and find you Melthor… when we return. I’m sure you will want to hear all my stories!”

] Melthor “You know I will!”

] The three of you head south on axebeak mounts towards a location marked on a map for you. You will follow Ten Trail until it crosses the Redrun River and then turn south east and follow the offshoot of the river for 10 miles. There you will find a narrow passageway leading to Frostfalls Pass and, on the other side, Alzvar.

] You travel for several hours at a decent pace. You should reach the Redrun River before Last Shadow. The weather is warm for early Uktar – just barely below freezing degrees and the three of you have had to remove your new yeti fur cloaks because you were just too warm. Samsam has been oddly quiet. Her new bow has been in her hands the entire trip… she switches between left and right hand as if trying to figure out which is supposed to hold the bow, and which really feels like holding it.

] Samsam “Teacher. Can I ask a question?”

Dawndra] “You can just call me Dawndra. Students at the monastery call me Guide Dawndra because it is a rule there, but I would prefer they called me just by name as well.”

] Samsam “Ok. Dawndra. Can I ask you question?”

Dawndra] “Of course. Please ask away.”

] Samsam “Does it feel bad to kill someone?”

Dawndra] “You don’t start with easy questions do you? Yes, it does feel bad and yes, it should feel bad.”

] Samsam “Is that why you spared the Verbeeg the other day?”

Dawndra] “Verbeeg? Oh… the giants we encountered on the way to Easthaven?”

] Samsam “I suppose they are giants. They aren’t really that big compared to real giants. Everyone calls them the ‘Verbeeg’ – don’t’ know why… They are always stealing our stuff, maybe ‘Verbeeg’ means bandit in giant language? I wanted to kill them. Is that wrong?”

Dawndra] “We did kill one of them. What was gained by the death?”

] Samsam “Melthor killed him.”

Dawndra] “Melthor delivered the fatal blow, but we all spilled the Verbeeg’s blood that day. What did we gain by it?”

] Samsam “We gained our lives… they would have killed us given the chance.”

Dawndra] “Perhaps that is so… and you have identified a good reason to kill. But could we have gained our lives without drawing any blood at all?”

] Samsam “It could have gone differently if I had not attacked… right? Maybe they would have just ignored me. Or I could have hid like you did. But I thought you were getting ready to spring an ambush. I thought I was helping.”

Dawndra] “No doubt you were, and now that it is done, it cannot go differently. We live among monsters and fiends and bullies with blades. We must learn to fight and sometimes to kill or be rich enough to hire a defense against monsters. Having the ability to kill, and even needing using it often, does not mean you enjoy the killing. Think of it this way… what is the difference between you and the monster?”

] Samsam “The monster is ugly and I am pretty?”

] Shent laughs loudly overhearing the response.

Dawndra] “No doubt… but can I suggest another difference? The monsters of this world enjoy killing. Whether they are yetiss or hags or giants or just bandits… enjoying the death of another is the mark that makes the monsters monsters. If you ever start to enjoy the killing… pretty as you are – you will become a monster. Does that make sense?”

] Samsam “Yes Teacher – I mean… Yes Dawndra, it does make sense.”

Dawndra] “Good. Now… I will teach you to fight and to kill but I will not teach you to be a monster and I will not teach a monster. That should be clear at the start.”

] Samsam “Yes Dawndra! That is clear.”

Dawndra] “I have a question for you then… and I want you to give it thought a while before answering… Are all Verbeeg ‘monsters’? Or is it possible some are and some are not?”

] Shent “Look, there. Someone pursues us. A single rider on Axebeak. They are pushing it hard.”

Dawndra] “Samsam, your Archers Blindfold… put it on and draw your bow in the direction of the rider. What do you see?”

] Samsam fits the silken cloth over her eyes and draws back the bow without an arrow notched. “Melthor! It’s Melthor riding to meet us. Wow, this is incredible! It is like he is right here! There is a red spot too… it moves with my aim of the bow… ”

] It takes Melthor over 5 minutes to actually reach you. He and his axebeak both appear exhausted.

] Samsam “Melthor!” He grabs him off his mount and bear hugs him.

Dawndra] “What is it Melthor? Did something happen?”

] Melthor squeaks trying to answer from the hug. “Nothing like you think. Harbert just convinced me you would need help. I couldn’t stand around thinking about you encountering trouble so packed what could and hurred after you. I was afraid I wouldn’t find you and I’d have to turn back.”

] Shent “I’m not sure there will be room enough for us all on my boat, but you are welcomed to join us Melthor.”

] Melthor “Boat? I don’t…”

Dawndra] “We will explain later… It helps to see it for yourself. Shent, do you think we can reach the passage by Last Shadow?”

] Shent “Only if we keep moving.”

] Hours later you reach the crossing of The Redrun River…. The beginning of the foothills of Spine of the World, you see dense forests of snow-covered trees. Just a half-mile upstream you see a tributary flow down into the Redrun from the forest and follow it into the thick wood.

] Shent “Look here. Fresh tracks in the snow… Several large-footed creatures came running through here recently.” He inspects the tracks as they wrap through the trees. “A bear! But it looks like it was being pursued… over here… those are clearly crag cat tracks. No sign of any blood. It was a footrace. And the bear must have been amazingly quick. We must stay alert… if the bear escaped, there are at least three hungry crag cats in the area… hungry and frustrated.”

] You continue to follow the tributary upstream. Clouds blocked out the sun an hour ago and the sky is thick with dark heavy clouds. You judge the passageway to be still a few miles deeper into the foothills forest.

] Shent “We are finished traveling for the day. We are likely also finished riding mounts as well, we will have to go the rest of the way on foot. Axebeaks are not going to handle the terrain ahead very well anyway, and if we leave them here tied up, they will be a meal before long. Best set them free to fend for themselves at this point. Bring the saddles and gear with us, we can store them on the boat.” He looks around for several minutes and then calls the rest of you over to large tree. “Now this is going to sound strange but since we cannot cover our tracks, we have to make them indicernable. Run all around this area, crazy-like. We want a bunch of meaningless tracks in the snow before we leave.”

Dawndra] I run circles around area and intentionally step in strange locations and ways to make silly tracks. “Never a dull day with Shenthrik Spinedelver as your guide!”

] Samsam and Melthor are also running around crazy-like and laughing happlily about it, as though a fun game. Suddenly [()] Melthor is ambushed by a large white cat. [()] He is knocked prone and suffers a vicious bite from the creature. Two more leap from the darkening woods, one charges [()] Dawndra but misses and the other [()] goes after Shent, doing critical damage.

Dawndra] I ready my pike and flank attack the beast on top of Melthor (CC01) [()]

] With your weight behind it, your ice pike invades the innards of the Crag Cat, sliding in behind rib bones. The creature releases a ear-breaking yowl  and turns it attention away from Melthor and towards you.

] Samsam reacts as though she had been practicing with a bow, anticipating this very event, for months. She notches her first arrow ever and pulls the Archers Blindfold over her eyes.With a smooth draw and release, she fires on the Crag Cat which attacked Melthor just as it turns on Dawndra [()] successfully. Melthor scrambles to his feet, draws and attacks the beast which turned away from him. [()] He skillfully slices thru to the spine of the beast, dropping it into the snow.

] Shent is under attack by one of the other three (Cragcat3) [()] It slashes at him but Shent has recovered from the ambush. Dawndra is also attacked [()] and takes 8 damage from a swiping claw  to her backside.  Shent brings down his battle axe and follows up with his new Ironmaster Dagger.

Dawndra] “You were right Shent! Hungry and frustrated they be!” I attack the cat which just got me. (Cragcat2)

] You weapon seems especially charged for this fight, striking again with critical accuracy. The Crag Cat leaps to get away from you but falls to the ground, breathing heavy while it starts to bleed out. Samsam draws on the remaining attacker (Cragcat3) [()] piercing its hind leg as Melthor brings his blade into motion. The Crag Cat leaps out of the way of the attack. It turns and appears to assess the situation. [()] Seeing it is alone and outnumbered, it runs into the dense wood.

Dawndra] “This one is still alive, but barely.” I circle the fallen cat, pike at the ready.

] Shent “Let me guess, my white giant wants to show the Crag Cat some mercy?”

Dawndra] “I suppose I do. It is a beautiful beast. We should either heal it or end its suffering.”

] Shent “They are beautiful creatures aren’t they… A moment please.” He casts Speaks with Animals and then kneels down in front of the suffering creature. With one hand on its head you hear him cast another spell. A moment later the Crag Cat rises to its feet. It nudges Shent with its nose and then runs off into the forest in the same direction as the other.

Dawndra] “Thank you Shent. But why do I get the feeling you would have done that without my asking?”

] Shent “Like you said, it is a beautiful creature. It was hunting for food, not sport, and it was hungry. Let’s go to Crotta’s and get some food, I’m starving.”

] Samsam looks to you Dawndra “What did he just say?”

Dawndra] “Crotta’s. It’s a tavern and grubhub. Doesn’t some hot stew sound perfect just now?”

] Melthor “Indeed, but…” he is cut short as Shent opens portal behind a large tree. “Oh! You have portal magic. Nice!”

] Minutes later the four of you are climbing the hill from the Fireshear Docks up to the Leaping Leucrotta tavern. As you are enjoying a hot meal, Saarvin and his daughter Roller enter and Shent waves them over to join you. Saarvin shares the latest bits of new and reveals that he has decided to enter the Frozenfray Games this year. Roller complains that she will have to stay behind in Fireshear with her tutor.

] Roller “I am not too young!” She complains loudly. “And I have to learn to fight! You said so yourself!”

] Saarvin “Yes you do… but… You also need to learn to heed your fathers words, Roller. Next year perhaps. If you went with me this time, I would just spend the whole tenday worried about your safety and I can’t win the games if I’m worrying about you dove.”

] Roller brightens with understanding “But you must win! I will stay here with boring old Berna and do my studies… but you must win okay father?”

] You enjoy some further conversation before returning to the Kirn Kuldhir to get a peaceful nights sleep.

Frostfalls Pass (Part Two)

] You are with Shent, Samsam and Melthor on your way to Almsvar. You learned that someone named Shavisala lives there. She is like you, and is likely your mother according to the merchant who told. You carry a package from the merchant to deliver to Shavisala, a powerful artifact she purchased through Nim Bragos. Another package was sent over a tenday ago, to be delivered by a group of 5 adventurers who call themselves The Red Drakes. They have not returned and Nim fears the worse… his previous package has not been delivered. He asked that you keep watch for these adventurers and if possible complete their mission as well.

] Yesterday you set out from Bryn Shander to the foothills of the Spine of the World. After a brief encounter with some local Crag Cats, you portaled back to the Kirn Kuldhir which is docked in Fireshear to enjoy safe nights rest. Before first light, you did your normal Heaven’s Orbit practice (+2 Ki for the day) Before setting out, you made up some of Nim’s special ‘energizing’ tea (4d4+4 = 14 Temporary HP).

] Back in the foothills of the Spine, you followed the tributary upstream for another 2 miles where you discovered the location marked on Nim’s map. You ventured through the large crevasse marking the beginning of Frostfalls Pass and began climbing long slow switchbacks from there.

] The calm blue skies of yesterday have fled. Today you watch large thick clouds speed by overhead. The winds pick up tiny shards of ice from the ground and hurl them into your face. The temperature has dropped to well below freezing and continues to drop as you climb higher up the pass. Three of you are toasty warm however. Your new yeti fur cloaks are all they promised to be. Melthor, however, is obviously struggling with the cold.

] Samsam “I think Melthor needs a break.” She opens her cloak wide. “Come here Melthor, let me warm you!”

] Melthor appears all too happy to press himself against Samsam. She is well more than a foot taller than he and his forehead does not even reach her chin as she wraps up him inside her cloak.

Dawndra] “So Shent… you have never been here before?”

] Shent “No. Never had a client with a reason to enter Frostfalls Pass. I’ve heard of it, all the Spine Rangers have. There is a wide valley at the top which the tales tell is quite beautiful. There huge hanging spikes of ice lining the entire valley. Hard for me to imagine really, but that is what I’ve been told. They say that water columns shoot high into the sky at the peak. Dwarves have been killed by peering down into the holes at the wrong time.”

Dawndra] “And you say you’ve never had a reason to go there before? ”

] Shent “I don’t like to risk my life for a sight-seeing tour. I’ve heard that hunters and trappers do well here among the foothills, but I doubt the scale up to where we are going. Rumors that Frost Giants have taken Almsvar back are always being floated around. Most adventurers are going to keep clear of a keep full of Frost Giants.”

Dawndra] “Nim mentioned the rumors to said to disregard them – Shavisala, my mother, probably started them to keep folk away. … it is weird to hear myself say that… ‘my mother’. I can’t believe I am going to meet her!”

] Shent “She sure picked an odd place to live. Even if she started the rumors, the fact is… Frost Giants are likely to find their way back to Almsvar. The legends told among the Ironmaster clan say it was Dwarves that carved the castle into the stone and ice. Giants had enslaved them and forced them to do it, but being Dwarves, they could only do it with extravagant styling. I’m sure the beauty was lost on the giants.”

] You continue the long slow climb, stopping briefly at times to allow Melthor to nuzzle the warmth of Samsam. About five hours into the upward trek, you begin to hear the sound of falling water ahead. The trail opens up onto a large table in the side of the mountain which appears to be made of ice. The surface is a thin layer of flowing water that drips over the side of the plateau. If you were to look over the edge on the north side you would see a staggering drop of hundreds of feet of cliff face covered in ice from the dripping ledge. On the south side there is another cliff wall 50 feet high with a massive waterfall pouring tons of water into a deep pool. The entire rock face sparkles with years of ice formed from the spray of falling water.

] Shent “Where is all that water going? There must be a thousand barrels a second coming over that cliff, but look, there is only small amount spilling out of that pool. It must be going deep underground.”

] Samsam “Oh it is beautiful! Isn’t it beautiful Melthor? I’ve never imagined such a place!”

] Melthor “Spectacular, very much spectacular. And scary… are we just going to walk across this wet ice table? I mean… is there any stone beneath it at all or is the whole thing ready to flop down the mountain at any moment?”

Dawndra] “A valid observation melthor. It looks ancient… and we know Giants walked this path once but who knows how much weight it can take today. We should cross one at a time to be safe – I will go last.”

] You watch as Shent tests the surface of the icetable. He steps out and begins gliding across with controlled skating steps, as if he were a kid playing on a frozen ice pond.

] Shent “Seems plenty stable!” he yells back to you.

] Melthor goes next, but with less grace. After several flips and falls, he just scoots his way across on hands and knees. Samsam decides on a different approach, she gets a running starts and then hits the slick wet ice with a strong stance and simply slides most all the way across to where Shent and Melthor wait.

Dawndra] “Very impressive Samsam!” I am not feeling quite so brazen… But I want to know what the wet ice feels like so I remove my boots and step out on the ice tentatively to test my weight.

] You experience a strange sensation as your barefeet come in contact with the thick ice. It feels as if each step is secured – as if your feet have grown roots which sink down into the ice. Without the slightest slip, you walk calmly across the surface as if it were a paved road. The cold energy radiating up through your feet makes you feel stronger.

] Samsam “She is just pretending that it is not slippy ice… right? How is that working for her?” she says while hugging Melthor against her body vigorously.

Dawndra] “I’m not sure how, but my bare feet feel connected to the ice. It was not slippery at all.”

] Shent “I’ve seen stranger things. I don’t try to explain any of them. Shall we continue on?”

] The trail wraps around the cliff face and then switches back, leading up towards the source of the massive waterfall. The trail opens to a much larger plateau area backed by much largers cliffs. The area is roundish and about 160 feet wide. The river splits the tableland almost perfectly in half, from the icy cliff over and down to where you just were. It is flowing fast and hard and is about 40 feet across. Where the trail leads across the river, there is no bridge but you see two large stepping stones… the kind only giants could safely use to cross.

] Shent “Hold back.” he says before you step out into the open. “I think I saw movement along the cliff wall there.”

] The wind is loud against the rock formations but you barely can hear what sounds like the moaning of a wounded beast. A rock flies from somewhere above and lands on the far side of the river and there is an angered but almost frightened cry from bushes where the rock landed.

] Melthor “What the zhok? Did you see…”

] Shent “Quiet. Wait…”

] More rocks fly across the river to the same bushes, and again you hear a response. One of the rocks flew from a spot you can see from where you stand and you notices there are caves all along the cliff face – most of them 40 or 50 feet up. A white creature appears from a cave and hurls a rocks and then ducks back inside the mountain.

Dawndra] “What was that? A Yeti?”

] Shent “No. Too small to be a Yeti or a Troll. Best guess? Snow Apes. Mischievous beasts…. They can be dangerous… depending on how many are together. In small numbers… they are cowardly… you can scare them off with a stick… but in a pack they become ferocious and deadly.”

Dawndra] “What are they throwing rocks at? Did you hear the cries?”

] Shent “I did, but what they came from? Maybe a Crag Cat?”

Dawndra] “Samsam – use your bow trick to take a closer look!”

] Samsam “Oh, I forgot!” She pulls the blindfold over her eyes and draws back on the empty bow, aiming towards the bushes where the rocks are falling. “There is a large bear hiding in the bushes… big as a polar bear but different… it doesn’t have fur like a bear… it has… feathers? Could that be right?”

] Shent “Owlbear!”

] Samsam “Something else… its eyes… oh Mother! It has no eyes!” She drops the bow and pulls the blindfold off. She hunches like she is about to hurl. “Just awful it is… something tore its eyes out.”

] Shent “A blind Owlbear is still mighty dangerous… they hunt by smell as much as by sight.”

Dawndra] “Yes, but remember, our cloaks mask our scent.”

] Shent “Right. Well they sure proved to be warm…. I guess you are screwed Melthor.” he laughs

] Samsam yanks Melthor over to her and shoves him inside her cloak. “I’ve got you Melthor!”

Dawndra] “How are we going to cross this river. Those stepping stones are probably slick with ice – jumping over them will be treacherous.”

] Shent “And you can bet your fancy that we will be targeted by those Snow Apes.”

Dawndra] “We need a bridge, maybe with enough rope we can make a rope bridge?”

] Samsam “Is there a way around the river? I don’t really like getting my hair wet.”

] Shent “Do you see a way around? ”

Dawndra] “I think maybe I do… look – the caves. What are the odds they are all connected by tunnels? If we could reach one, maybe we can just walk around the river?”

] Melthor “But the Snow Apes!” he says muffled against Samsam’s chest.

Dawndra] “I think I might be able to safely leap across those stepping stones. Then secure the rest of you with my rope. You might fall in, but I can stop you from falling over. Or we can try the caves. What say you all?”

] Shent “I’m with Samsam on this one… I don’t like getting my beard wet… I say we brave the caves.”

] Samsam “But Melthor is afraid of the apes! I say we jump across.”

] Melthor “I am not afraid of the apes… I was just… well… okay, lets jump across.”

Dawndra] “I have an idea about our packs… we don’t want them weighing us down – especially if we fall in.” I pull out the pouch used to contain my cloak. “Ma Akana Bino” I place my boots and pack inside – except for my rope. “Ma Akana Sima”

] The pouch magically compresses the pack into a pouch sized sack you can wear around your neck.

] Shent “Brilliant! I can’t believe we have been lugging our packs this entire time! Just when I start to think I’m smart…” He does the same, repeating the command works to open and close the enchanted sacks.

] Samsam follows you. “Melthor, see if we can fit your pack in here as well. Maakana Sima!” she says, but the sack does not close. “Won’t fit! What do we do?”

] Melthor “I guess we just throw it across. ”

Dawndra] “I will go first and throw the rope back across. Tye yourselves off before you attempt to cross. And… Watch that the owlbear doesn’t charge me from behind will you?” I get a running start and attempt to jump barefoot over both stepping stones.

] As you suspected, your barefeet somehow have unnatural traction on the ice-coated stones and you skip across the river with ease. Before you can throw the rope back across however, a large rock splashes into the river just a few feet from you. The Snow Apes have spotted you. After you throw the rope back across, Samsam ties herself and with no sign of fear or hestitation, leaps the crossing rocks [()] successfully. Shent ties himself and goes next [()] but on the first rock his feet disappear from under him. He falls into the river [()] but you and Samsam are easily able to pull him across. More rocks fly at you [()] and one hits you in the back Dawndra while you are pulling Shent to his feet (dmg 3)

Dawndra] “Kak! They are strong to throw that far… and across the wind! Samsam… see you can scare them back in their holes with an arrow or two.”

] Samsam “I can try!” putting her blindfold on she draws back an arrow. “It won’t even come close. I don’t get the target thingy.”

] Shent “Hurry it up Melthor!” He yells. “I am suddenly very very cold. I guess this magic wool won’t work wet?”

Dawndra] “Here swap with me for a min to get warm.”

] While Melthor is tying himself to the other end of the rope, you remove your cloak for Shent to wear. More rocks fly – at you and at the Owlbear nearby [()] but they miss everyone. As soon as you remove your cloak you hear a screeching cry from the Owlbear. It has smelled you and is now charging your direction.

Dawndra] “Gutt! Gutt! Gutt! I forgot.” I hand the rope to Shent “Here, get Melthor across and I will lead the Owlbear away. I ready my weapon and begin to run closer towards the cliff wall thinking I might let the apes help distract this beast. I look to see if it is following my scent.

] The owlbear is successfully tracking you and follows after you. You can hear the excited Snow Apes as they throw more rocks [()] missing you and [()] hitting the owlbear. It howls in frustration but keeps charging. It’s speed matching yours.

Dawndra] I run up to the cliff and try to find a spot I can climb up [Athletics Check]

] You successfully climb up to a small cave about 20 feet above ground. Below, the owlbear has started bashing into ice-coated wall. It is also getting pelted with rocks from the Snow Apes. It is a pitiful sight… anger, fear, frustration… all personfied by the owlbear empty, bloody eye sockets.

] Shent yells to “Come on back Dawndra!”

] You notice that Melthor has [()] safely made it across the river. They are all standing ready for a fight. Suddenly you hear a loud howl that sounds like it came from below the nine hells. As it echoes around the cliff walls, you notice all of the Snow Apes scurry out of sight. The owlbear also panics and runs [()] straight into the river. You watch as the strong currents wash the terrified beast away.

Dawndra] I climb back down and rejoin the group. “What was that!?”

] Shent “I don’t know, but something tells me we should be very afraid. Hurry, lets get out of the open.”

] You continue following the trail as it scales higher up the mountain. You find a shallow cave with enough shelter to start a fire and warm Shent and Melthor. The material of Shent’s cloak dries quickly near the fire and he is able to feel it producing its magical warmth again..

] Shent “I judge we have enough daylight left to climb perhaps another quadday. I think we just might reach the summit before the dark of Nhyx. How is everyone feeling? Ready to climb or would you prefer to call it a done-day here?”

] Everyone agrees to cover some more distance while there is daylight. As you are putting out the fire, you again hear the otherworldly howling echo through the mountain range. It chills you in a way that even the most bitter cold is unable to.

] Melthor “On second thought…”

] Shent “Whatever it is, it sounds farther away. We are hearing echoes now, back at the river crossing it was really close.”

] You climb another two hours. The wind gusts are stronger now, the sound can be deafening at times and you have to cover your eyes to prevent the ice blasts blinding you. After trekking along the mountain face for a long distance, the path widens into more switchbacks. Ahead about 50 feet you see what looks like a body in a red cloak dangling from a rope tied to barren tree.

] Shent “Hold. That there is what you call suspicious… Let me scout ahead just a bit.” [()]

] You watch as Shent crouches and slowly steps forward, hyper aware of each step. He gets within 10 feet of the hanging cloak and then backtracks a bit, looking along the uphill side for something. He finds a frozen branch and returns to the red cloak. He uses the branch to look under the cloak and then begins poking the branch into the snow underneath it. You hear a loud clanging metal snap! Shent jumps backwards as large hidden bear trap is triggered, shattering the branch into many bits. The loud metal clang echoes up the mountain side. As Shent turns back towards you, you see him smiling wide. His face drops a second later however, as you once again hear the fiendish howl in the distance. It is now clearly uphill from you and not far away. Shent waves you forward.

Dawndra] “What did you find Shent? Besides the leg snapper…”

] Shent “It’s an animal carcass… a reindeer, or whats left of one. All its legs are sawn off. Someone is obviously trying to catch bigger game.”

] Melthor “Maybe someone is trying to catch whatever is making that howling.”

] Samsam “Or maybe the howling fiend is trying to catch us! Did you think that maybe?”

Dawndra] “I’d like to take a close look at the red cloak. Part of our objective is to find a group called the Red Drakes… and it seems a bright red cloak would be just what they would be wearing.” I approach the hanging trap careful and remove the cloak and inspect it.

] The red cloak is frozen stiff in parts where it soaked with blood. There is a breast pocket with something within it. You also note at the botton inner corner of the cloak there is a familiar emblem of an abstract loom circled by the words- Norli The Weaver.

Dawndra] “Look here. This is one of Norli’s cloaks. It must be from the Red Drakes!”

] Shent “Could they be the hunters who set the trap?”

Dawndra] “Could be, but I assume this cloak has enchantments like ours… who would leave it like this. There is something in the pocket as well.” I shake the cloak.

] You hear the sound of gold coins inside a pouch. Opening it up you find 52 gp and a green gem which has a faint magical glow to it.

Dawndra] I pull out the green gem and look more closely at it.

] It feels slightly warm to the touch and you feel an odd instinct to squeeze it in your palm. After squeezing it for 6 seconds, the magical glow from within the gem is transferred to your hand and you suddently, magically, know that this is a Gem of Aid.

Dawndra] “Wow! Here… quick… Melthor, Samsam… Shent… let me share this before it fades.” I touch each of them with my green-glowing hand.

] They each receive the boon of the Gem of Aid.

] Melthor “Hey, that feels warm and nice.”

Dawndra] I tuck the gem back in with the coins and stash it in my own pockets. Then I hand Melthor the cloak “Here Melthor. I don’t know exactly what this cloak does, but it is likely enchanted from our friend Norli. Sorry about the blood…”

] From uphill, you hear a slight rustle and then, as if out of nowhere, a huge white-furred beast descends on the hanging carcass and begins viciously tearing at it. Seemingly unaware of you still, it turns its back towards you as it feasts.

Dawndra] I want first strike on this beast

] With a graceful leap, you pull your weapon and strike, driving the piercing tip deep into the lower back of the beast. You extract and attempt to sweep the legs. The Yeti does not fall, but turns on you. [Initiative Rolls]

] Melthor is suddenly beside you before the massive beast, his sword jolts forward and upward [()] opening up its belly with a squishing sound. It fixes it eyes on you Dawndra, fierce and murderous [Constitution Save]

Dawndra]

] It’s claws attempt havok on both of you [()] Dawndra you take a dangerous slashing blow but manage to push Melthor out of reach of the attack. An arrow from Samsam’s bow whistles behind you [()] and sticks into the upper chest of the Yeti. Shent has meanwhile circled the monster and attacks from behind [()] his battle axe severs the spinal cord and the Yeti goes limp. It folds to the ground and rolls over – its eerie eyes darting, searching. Shent drives a dagger through its throat and up into the skull to finish it.

] Shent “Good work everyone. I’ve never seen a Yeti attack end so quickly, so smoothly, and I’ve see many Yeti attacks. You okay Dawndra?”

Dawndra] “Yes, I will be fine. So this is a Yeti? What is the difference between a Yeti and a Frost Troll?”

] Shent “Well… One difference… we would not have killed a Frost Troll so easily. But they do sort of look alike… sort of… That actually gives me an idea Dawndra… The final challenge of the Fray Games, assuming we get that far… will be to get past the poachers… there is always waiting to snatch away your prize as you return to Easthaven, someone unable or unwilling to actually fight a Frost Troll. The rules don’t forbide it, so there are always those without honor who will ambush you for your prize head. What if… we just let them have our “prize head”… Eh?”

Dawndra] “I’m not quite following.”

] Shent “What  we have here is a dead Yeti head… Assuming we bag ourselves a real Frost Troll head, we could hide it in one of them fancy magic sacks. Then… we have a big sack with this head in it. The prize poachers will want to steal it, and we can just let them. Can you imagine… pulling out a Yeti head at the finish line! It would be a hoot to see. Here, help me carve off the horns. They would be a giveaway since trolls don’t often have horns.”

] Samsam “Often? You mean sometimes to do? I’ve never seen a troll… or a yeti until now. They are as fearsome as the stories say.” Her demeanor changes, rises… “We are more fearsome!” she yells.

] Something about Samsam’s boast fills you all with inner strength. [Inspiration]

] Shent finishes harvesting the head, the horns and the claws of the Yeti. “Here, feel the claws Dawndra. They will remain that cold – even if you carried them into Calimport, they would keep a flagon of ale chilled. The horns too. We can probably get 50 gp for them.”

] You bury the Yeti head nearby to keep it hidden until you return. Then you continue to climb the switchbacks to the summit. The winds seem to calm somewhat the higher you go. Last Shadow is not far away when you finally stop ascending. The trail opens up into a large valley between massive mountain ledges. The valley is about 200 feet wide and appears to stretch East for nearly a mile. A fresh blanket of snow covers the ground. All along the cliff sides there are colossal icicles. Not far ahead, along the South cliff wall sheltered by handing ice, you see a red tent.

Dawndra] I point at the tent “Perhaps we have found the Red Drakes?” I cautiously approach the tent with weapon ready.

] Beside the tent, partially covered by snow, is the body of a human dressed in black leathers. He faces the sky eyes wide open, blood caked around his gaping mouth. You notice his teeth and his tongue have been removed forcibly.

] Samsam “Ahg! What horrible thing did this!?”

] Shent “Not a beast. That seems sure.”

Dawndra] “We saw an owlbear with its eyes cut out and now a man with his tongue cut out.”

] Shent “Don’t forget the deer carcass with its legs removed.”

] Melthor “Could they all be related?”

Dawndra] “Seems likely right? Lets search inside the tent for Nim’s package.”

] There is no one else inside the tent but you see four thin bedrolls and four packs. Alongside one of the bedrolls is a maul with intricate dwarven design. Inside the packs you find basic supplies and rations and several healing potions. There is a single coin purse, filled to the brim with 548gp. You do not find Nim’s package to Shavisala.

Dawndra] I hand the maul back to Shent “This might interest you. Looks Dwarven to me.”

] As you are passing it back,  you think you hear a someone yell “Hey!”.

Dawndra] “Who was that!?” I climb back out of the tent and search the area.

] You see nothing except Shent smiling at the maul you just handed him.

] Shent “That was Verna here.” He is still looking at the maul. “Pleased to meet you Verna. I am called Shent and this is… what? No, I’m sorry I do not know where Brallga is – or even who Brallga is.” The look on Shents face turns to consternation. “No… you what?! … No!” Then he drops the maul into the snow. “Boy is she barmy! The weapon is sentient… Verna. Her mate is someone named Brallga – one of these drakes I suppose. She does not like being handled by anyone but Brallga … I mean she really does not like it.”

Dawndra] “Can Verna tell us what happened here? Where the rest of the Red Drakes are?”

] Shent “I don’t think so – she thought I should know… But you can pick it up and ask her yourself if you feel plucky.”

] Samsam “Can Verna hear us? She has no ears… or eyes… or nothing… I don’t understand.”

] Melthor “I knew a man, my fathers brother, who had a sentient sword. It saw through his eyes and heard through his ears, but only when he held it. This thumper is probably the same way I would think.”

] Shent “Well I don’t want to touch it again.” He kicks snow over it.

Dawndra] “It looks like there were four together. One lies dead, perhaps the other three still live?”

] Samsam “Where? We didn’t…”

] She is cut off by the horrifying howl you have heard twice before. It echoes through the valley and you are confident the howler is close by – in the valley with you, or perhaps along the ridges. Shortly after the howl ceases you hear a large gurgling sound. Across the valley and further east a little ways you watch a giant gush of steam and water shoot into the sky 30 feet or more. The column lasts several seconds before disappearing. A massive cloud of steam is caught by a wind and sweeps down into the valley before freezing and falling to the ground as tiny ice crystals.

] Samsam “That… was… amazing! Did you see that!? Amazing!”

] Melthor “Yes, amazing…” he says staring at the face of Samsam. “I mean… wow you are right Samsam, that was beautiful. Unlike anything I’ve ever seen.”

] Shent “I wonder how many geysers there are. Look at all the ice formations – all that water came from a long ways underground. I will have to bring my father here… he would love this. But first… we find the rest of the Red Drakes and then get Dawndra to her mother in Almsvar.” He kneels and begins searching the ground. “Look… unnatural divits in the snow… they lead directly across the Frostfalls Valley.”

Dawndra] “I fear they lead directly to our hell-howler too… keep keen.” I extend my ice pike to full length.

] Samsam “Yeah… keen as the Rime Hawk. I don’t want to lose my teeth, or my tongue… or my eyes!”

] You walk directly across the valley following the slight divits in the snow. Before you reach the other side, you see the tracks lead to a cave – mostly hidden behind long thick columns of ice. As you approach the entrance, the smell of sulfur and wet fur fills your sense. Looking inside you see bones, cracked and split, and large brown feathers littering the floor. The cave is about 15 feet wide and appears to open wider a ways back.

] Shent “Hold back, let me scout the cave first. Mind our hind will you? We are being stalked and this may be the trap.” He enters in stealthily. He returns momentarily. “No beast, not a living one anyway. There is another body wrapped in a red cloak against the back wall. This one has boots. Come see.”

Dawndra] “I pick up one of the bones near the cave entrance and I cast Light on it.”

] You enter into the cave with a brightly glowing bone. The tunnel widens to about 30 feet across and extends nearly a hundred feet back from the entrance. You step around years of Owlbear offal to see, laying against the far back wall, a figure in a red cloak. As you get closer, you see the backside of the head of a Dragonborn

Dawndra] In a low voice I say “Do you live?”

] There is no response.

Dawndra] I get closer and feel for breath.

] Shent whispers urgently “Remember the last body in a cloak was booby-trapped!”

] You can feel the warmth of breath coming from Dragonborns nose.

Dawndra] “She lives. Faintly.”

] Shent “Let me check.” He gently searches around the body and within the cloak. “I don’t see any traps. I will try to heal her.” He casts Cure Wounds.

] Within moments the red Dragonborn scrambles to her feet and is facing you with fierce determination.

Dawndra] “Are you with The Red Drakes? We are sent from Nim Bragos. We would help.”

] Dragonborn “Yes, I am with The Red Drakes, though I fear I am the only remaining. I am Thavila.”

] Samsam “I am Samsam! This is Melthor… and Dawndra… and Shent.”

] Shent “We found one poor fellow at your camp whom we could not heal. I was fairly confident we would find the rest of you in this cave.”

Dawndra] “Can you tell us what…”

] You are interupted by the echoing howl of your otherworldly stalker, seemingly at the cave entrance.

] Samsam notches an arrow “Its here!”

Dawndra] I turn and take a ready stance.

] Moments pass in heightened silence. Nothing enters the Owlbear cave. Shent creeps back towards the entrance then returns.

] Shent “Nothing to be seen. It is toying with us like a Crag Cat with a Skia Rat.”

Dawndra] Without turning away from the entrance, I say “Tell us what happened Thavlia.”

] Thavlia whispers “That thing was stalking us too, all the way up the mountain. But we never saw it. We made camp here in the Frostfalls Valley, must have been two days ago now. Lorvus had first watch. I awoke that night to putrid smell of some kind of toxin. Garlvan and Brallga were pulled from our tent by this cackling woman and her two… well I don’t know what they were… constructs of some kind, ghastly… and powerful. I fought them until my last hope was to run. I returned at First Shadow to find Lorvus dead, the others missing. Tracks led to this cave but I must have triggered a trap. The last thing I remember is that sickly smell and then you waking me.”

] Melthor “Trap? Why trap an empty Owlbear cave?”

Dawndra] “Exactly the question Melthor. It must be more than it appears.” I look around for hidden passages. [Investigation Check]

] You find nothing but rock walls. Thavila is also searching, but around the ground.

] Thavila “My staff… I am certain I had it when I entered but it is missing.” says with concerned quiet, then collapses against a side wall.

] Shent “We found only that horrible Dwarven maul.”

] Thavila “Right, Verna can be cranky I’ve heard. We’ve never met.”

] Shent “Wish I could say the same.”

] Samsam walks back and forth and around the cave “If I were a secret door in a smelly cave… where would I be? I know!…” She pulls the blindfold over her eyes and searches around the cave while drawing an empty bow. “Right there!” She runs and then slams a shoulder into the wall. A small section depresses and then swings inward.

Dawndra] “Well done Samsam. Norli knew didn’t she. I don’t know how but she knew we needed you.” We enter cautiously into the opened area.

] You see a tunnel leading both to the left and right. There are vials of glowing liquid handing from rock nails along the walls giving enough greeen-tinted light to see. To the left, the tunnel leads about 25 feet before turning right and there is a room off of to the left of the turn. Westerward to your right the tunnel opens up into a large cavernous area with high ceilings. Your keen sense of smell is overwhelmed with the heavy scent of blood from both directions.

Dawndra] I nod my head towards the cavern area and walk westward.

] You see large chunks of meat hanging from hooks along the far walls of this area. Along the south wall you see a closed wooden door. There is another tunnel heading east beyond the door. As you walk closer, you see some of the hanging meat appears to be Reindeer parts but others are unmistakably humanoid.

] Thavila whispers “Please don’t let that be Garlvan… or Brallga…” She appears to be near collapse again. Samsam notices and hurries to shoulder her up.

] Shent points at the door and motions for you to hold position. He walks catlike to the door and listens against it. After a few moments he returns. “There is at least one person in there, I hear a faint talking, sort of like a flat chanting.”

] Thavila “Garlvan! He is praying!” she says in a smokey whisper.

] Shent “The door is bolted from the outside, but still – be ready when I open it.”

] You all walk over to the door. Shent slowly pulls the bolt back and opens the door. The stench of death and shit assaults you. Inside you see several large cages. Most are empty. One large cage contains the rotting corpse of a hippogriff. In another cage, you see a red Dragonborn sitting crosslegged in the center. His eyes are closed and he chants the same few words over and over and over.

] Thavila runs over to him “Garlvan! You’re alive!”

] The chanting Dragonborn does not appear to have any outward awareness, he just keeps chanting with his eyes closed. Thavila tries pulling at the cage door but it will not open.

Dawndra] “The toxins have weakened you. Allow me to try.” [Athletics Check]

] You successfully snap the locking bolt and open the cage door. Garlvan remains as he was.

Dawndra] “Stay here with him Thavila. We will try to find Brallga.” I quietly look to see if the package from Nim Bragos is in the room.

] You do not see any sign of the package. You leave the cage room and turn right. About 40 feet south and east you find another door leading directly south. It is hanging half open and you can hear what sounds like boiling water from within. The light has a green tint like the vials hanging about walls of the tunnel, only much brighter. Looking in, you see a large glass vat filled with water and some sort of creature you cannot describe. You also see part of a large table in the center of the room. There is someone lying on it but you can only see their boots.

Dawndra] I motion to Samsam to stay here and use the doorway as cover. Then I decide to play this boldly and motion to Shent and Melthor to also stay out of sight… I will walk in like I belong there and see if I can free Brallga without a fight. I push the door fully open and walk casually in.

] As you enter the large room, the rank alchemical stink of the place is nearly overpowering. You see a female Dwarf is lying on the center table. She is stripped from the waist up and has tubes and wires connected to her which lead to the large bubbling vats. You see five of them total, each with a strange malformed creature within. They begin to stir as they become aware of your presence. You notice that some of their organs are exposed or completely outside their torso, floating in the green liquid. A kneeling human woman in a cowl is untangling a nest of tubes which is connected to one of the vats. She has her back turned towards the door and is still unaware of you.

Dawndra] I walk up to the woman. “My name is Dawndra, and I am here to collect my friend and her things.”

] The woman spins around coming to her feet. “What! Who are you!?”

Dawndra] “I just said woman… my name is Dawndra and I am here to collect my friend Brallga. Let her free and no one need bleed.”

] Mad Alchemist “What are you?” she begins to walk around you, looking you up and down. “You are no Goliath, and certainly not one of the Barbarian wenchs from Reghed.”

Dawndra] “I still do not know what I am, but I know I am going to stop what you are doing to my friend.”

] Mad Alchemist “You might be just the thing I need for my Starters to survive this time. Let’s deal, your friend can go free and you take her place.”

Dawndra] “The only deal is, you release us all and you can keep breathing this stank-air in peace.”

] Mad Alchemist “Brave and mighty this one!” she cackles like an ancient hag. “You give Tarina a thing to think on – you do… yes indeed, you do.” she turns slightly away from you and then spins, throwing down a glass vial she pulled from a vest pouch [Constition Save]

Dawndra]

] Thick toxic fumes surround you but fail to poison you as intended. You jump back out of the cloud and see Tarina ducking behind one of the vats.

Dawndra] “No wonder this place stinks. Maybe if we spray some of your blood over everything it will smell better.” I chase after her and attack.

] Your first piercing lunge with your ice pike is deftly dodged, but you follow up with a side-strike followed by a blunting with the bottom end of your weapon. Tarina grunts from the blows and then is suddenly gone. As you spin to locate her, you see another glass vial flying towards you [()] but you quickly jump and roll out of the way. It hits the ground right near the vat and explodes in fiery chaos. The large vat bursts, flooding the area with water. A malformed beast with 3 arms and one and a half legs falls to the ground. The explosion lets Shent and the other know it is time to fight.

[Initative Rolls]

] Samsam fires an arrow at the mad alchemist from the entry [()] but misses.

Dawndra] “Watch for flying vials! They are deadly!” I chase her down to end her madness

] Your ice pike spears Tarina’s leg and you use the leverage to push her off balance. You step in bring the backside of your pike against her chest, striking a glass vial and driving her body backwards as the vial explodes in her chest. [+12 dmg] Her cloths catch fire and she turns to escape but Shent is already there. He attacks [()] but the flames leaping from her make the task difficult. Melthor has meanwhile flanked her [()] and brings his blades crashing down on her shoulder. The Mad Alchemist reaches into the flames and pulls another vial from her burning vest. Shent and Melthor are quickly enveloped in the toxic gas. [()] Melthor falls to the ground gagging and choking while Shent has lept free of the poison. Tarina is once again out of sight.

] Behind Dawndra, the malformed “Starter” has hobbled its way into striking range [()] it slashes out with razor claws drawing blood from your leg. Samsam has been tracking Tarina with her enchanted archers blindfold and sees an opportunity to release her arrow [()] right on target.

] Tarina “Yeild! I yeild! Take your friend and go!”

Dawndra] “That time has passed you crazy hellrunt!” I intend to kill

] With all your weight and strength, you advance on the Mad Alchemist. The tip of your weapon pierces her gut as you drive upwards. Tarina is lifted up off the ground and her frenzied and flaming body slides down your giant ice needle. Her screams are a mix of terror and laughter until she falls into slumped silence.

] Shent attacks the released vat creature [()] hacking at its exposed organs. It tries to fend off Shent [()] drawing blood from the Dwarven Ranger. Melthor is meanwhile writhing on the ground, his stomach retching. Samsam has dropped her bow and is racing to help Melthor.

] Samsam “Melthor! Oh! What can I do!?”

Dawndra] I join Shent in ending this pitiful creatures life.

] You spear the beast and hold it down while Shent hacks away with the advantage. Within seconds it is motionless. The other creatures in the vats are watching in panic but appear unable to release themselves.

] Samsam “Dawndra! Shent! We need to help Melthor!”

] Shent “I see a number of other vials over here, maybe there is a antidote.” He hurries over to the table on the far eastern side of the cavern.

] Before he can start looking, the entire cavern begins to tremble and you hear the sound of a powerful geyser explode just beyond the cave wall. You notice that there are wires and tubes threading into the rock where the rushing sound is loudest. All of the four remaining vats begin to surge with violent bubbling and you witness an exponential growth of the creatures within… they form new appendages and finish growing half ones. Their torsos form more completely and scales burst from their heads and backs. [()] They all begin thrashing about inside the vats, pounding and kicking from the inside to get violently out. Two of them succeed.

] Samsam “What the pifflehole!?!” She sees the escaping creatures and takes up Melthors blade. [()]  and slashes one of them (Starter04)

Dawndra] I see Samsam endandering herself with melee combat and rush to attack the creature standing before her

] You unleash a torrent of successful strikes and before the monsterous experiment can stick a claw in young Samsam, it is dying with a death-screech.

] Shent goes after the other escapee [()] with some success. It retaliates, cutting Shent up but not enough to stall him. Samsam is taken by mania and runs with Melthors sword overhead [()] and bringing down on the scaled skull of the Starter facing Shent.

Dawndra] “Are you determined to get yourself dead Samsam? Ugh!” I hurry to distance her from the creature by taking its attention if I can

] You push the vat monster sideways with your pike and then deliver a crushing thrust-kick into its unfinished chest. Guts go flying as the thing falls backwards into stillness.

Dawndra] “Now… Samsam… You have to stop getting into the fray. I will teach you to swing that sword with defense, but right now, you are vulnerable. I would miss your face if it got eaten by a vat monster… and I know for a fact that Melthor would!”

] Samsam “Melthor!” She turns to look towards him.

] Melthor is kneeling and trying to get to his feet. “I am better. Still weak, but better.”

] Shent “Here, there is a whole pouch of vials marked Lesser Restoration.” He opens one and smells “Smells right…” he touches a finger to the liquid and tastes it. “Yep, tastes right too. Here Melthor, drink this.”

Dawndra] I go to the body on the table “I think we need one for Brallga here too.” I begin removing the tubes and wires from her body. “Do you see her clothes anywhere?”

] Shent finds a large sack with gold-hued plate armor and a tunic. Within the sack there is another sack which matches the description Nim Bragos gave you of the special delivery The Red Drakes were carrying to Almsvar. There is also a familiar red cloak in the sack. You drape her naked body with the cloak before Shent casts Cure Wounds and touches her arm.

] Brallga awakes with Shent staring into her dim eyes. “Wha? Where am… Who?”

] Shent “Relax Brallga, you are safe and among friends. Here, drink this restoration potion, you will feel better…. At least until Verna has her words with you.”

] After you catch Brallga up enough on the events, you return to Garlvan and Thavila. The restoration potions live up to their label and soon you are all across the valley at their campsite. You all join together in carrying stones to cover the body of Lorvus Hookint – famed Rogue of the Red Drakes. Shortly after the last stone is placed, you all hear the terrifying howl of the stalking creature echoing through Frostfalls Vale, but you never catch sight of its source.

] The remaining Red Drakes are determined to finish their assigned task and go with you to Almsvar. The seven of you squeeze into difficult sleeping positions within the Kirn Kuldhir after Shent opened a portal for you.

The Ice Temple Alzvar

] You are with Shent, Samsam and Melthor in the Spine of the World. Yesterday you found and rescued The Red Drakes while on your way to Alzvar to meet someone named Sharvasla, whom you currently believe may be your mother. The three remaining Red Drakes, Thavlia, Garlvan and Brallga, have acccompanied you in order to finish their mission – delivering a special package from Nim Bragos. Sharvasla apparently buys many enchanted artifacts through the Calishite merchant. He asked you to deliver one as well, safely guarded inside a magical sack made by Norli Bragos – one which only Sharvasla would be able to open.

] The 7 of you had a quick meal at Crotta’s and then portaled back to Frostfalls Vale while it was still First Shadow. The valley was filled with a thick mist and you could not see from one side to the other. The eastern side of the pass proved to be a challenging climb down multiple cliff faces caked in thick ice. The Red Drakes have made this same trip several times before but it had been a year since and it took time to set new rope anchors to hold the extra weight. The last half of the climb went down deep into a crevasse where the mountain had apparently been split in two.  At the bottom of the crevasse you found a raging underground river covered over with a sheet of amazing clear ice which must have been 50 feet thick. You followed it north for nearly a mile before it opened up into a large crescent-shaped pocket in the mountain.

] The cliff walls tower around you as Garlvan directs you to the entrance of the Ice Temple Alzvar. Centered on the inward arc of the mountainous structure is an ornate entrance carved in ice. The doorway, some 30 feet tall and at least half that wide, is covered in what appears to be a curtain of translucent ice. There is no apparent way through. You notice a faint glow of light coming from within.

] Garlvan “Welcome to Alzvar!”

] Samsam “Astonishing! Are we lost in a dream?”

] Shent “Those engravings are remarkable, surely Dwarven design! But in ice? The stories say Alzvar was a sanctum of Frost Giants…”

] Brallga “I thought the same. Unmistakably Dwarven crafting.”

Dawndra] “But the entrance is entirely sealed in ice, how do we get in?”

] Thavila “We don’t. At least, we never have. We deliver our package into that chest there.” She points at a large box made entirely of ice extruding from the frame of the entrance. “Then we marvel a bit more and turn back towards Tentowns.”

] Melthor “I could marvel all day… just look at – hey look!”

] You see faint movement and hear large heavy footsteps from behind the curtain of ice. Someone is approaching and you quickly realize it is a Frost Giant.

] Melthor “Frost Giant! Run!” he scrambles back toward the river.

] Everyone else runs with borderline panic as the nearly 20 foot tall giant approaches the doorway.

Dawndra] “Hey! There is nowhere run, what are you doing?” I stand ready and pull my hair pin but do not extend it. “We don’t even know if there is a threat!”

] The Frost Giant is almost clearly visible behind the curtain. She is stunningly beautiful, with azure-blue skin and long black hair. Her facial features , although massive, are delicate. She smiles when she sees you standing there and then pulls back the ice curtain as though it were made of silk. It actually ripples and creases like a curtain as though in a state somewhere between water and ice.

] Frost Giant “Sharvasla! You are back! Who are your friends? Why did you not… wait… you look… young?”

Dawndra] “Greetings friend. I am not Sharvasla. I am called Dawndra. I am looking for Sharvasla. I am looking, I think… for my mother.”

] Frost Giant “The Lofty Snow Lass! The lost one has found her way home at last! Enter! Enter!”

Dawndra] “Lofty what…? ”

] Frost Giant “You surely have better questions than that young one. I will answer what I can. Enter and rest.”

] Shent has stepped back beside you. “Is it safe?”

] Frost Giant “I stopped eating Dwarves a long time ago friend. No harm will come to you here – least of all from Soll Koli!”

Dawndra] I enter into the temple “Soll Koli? That is your name?”

Soll Koli] “Yes Dawndra the Arktikos, I am the Skald Sol Koli. Perhaps you have heard my name before?”

Dawndra] “Er, no… not that I recall.. Well met Sol Koli! This is my friend and guide Shenthrik Spinedelver and the others…” I look back to see where they others are.

] Soll Koli “A Spinedelver! Can’t be! The dragon says the entire Spinedelver Clan lines its lair as frozen sentries. If you are truly a Spinedelver, then you know your actual lineage is…”

] Shent “Battlehammer… yes. I am kin to the shield dwarves of Mithril Hall.”

Dawndra] “And this is our friend and my student, Samsam.”

] Samsam “You are so… beautiful! I thought Frost Giants were supposed to be ugly and mean… but you are… so beautiful!”

] Soll Koli “Kind words from a little one, thank you Samsam. You are quite captivating yourself. All that amazing red hair…  and such deep blue eyes… where do you come from Samsam?”

] Samsam “Bryn Shander! Its nice! Well… not nice like Alzvar. This is an amazing place! ” She wanders in staring up at the decorative walls and ceilings.

] The rest of your party hestitantly joins you and you introduce each by name. The interior of Alzvar is truly amazing. All of the walls and ceilings are decorated with carved ice much like the exterior frame of the entrance but massive and overwhelming in size. The temple interior is nearly 100 feet wide and stretches into the mountain several hundred feet. At the far end you see a giant statue centered against the prominant wall.

Dawndra] “Soll Koli… a moment ago you called me an… Ark something or other. I do not know the word… what does it mean?”

] Soll Koli “Arktikos. I failed to consider you may not even know… It is what your kind are called, like Shent is “Dwarven” and these two are “Dragonborn”, you are an Arktikos.”

Dawndra] “Where do we come from?”

] Soll Koli “Why right here – Alzvar! It is quite a story, but given the circumstances, I think it best to allow Sharvasla to reveal your secrets to you. There are things you will know once you meet – things that should have been yours from a child… things I cannot pass on to you. But I can say that your own history is one with this temple. Welcome home Dawndra!”

Dawndra] “Thank you Soll Koli. It feels strangely like home. When do you expect Sharvasla to return?”

] Soll Koli “I can’t say. She went in search of you Dawndra. She has been looking for you since the day you were lost. But I gave her the first big clue didn’t I! The Lofty Snow Lass!”

Dawndra] “You mentioned… but what is The Lofty Snow Lass?”

] Soll Koli “Why it is you – it must be you! Or rather, about you. The Lofty Snow Lass is a bards tune that has recently become popular. It tells of your mighty stature, your snow-white fur, and most tellingly, your ice weapon. That is when I knew I had found you. Sharvasla has a weapon just like it. Truth of it, there are many weapons here like it, but only her spear and yours will respond to your will.”

Dawndra] “Bards are singing songs about me? How can that be?”

] Soll Koli “They tell of your adventure to crush the sinister Lallargh before she could destroy the Moonshae Isles.”

Dawndra] “Lallargh? But I didn’t… crush… anyone. Lallargh is a villain to be sure, and she gave me and my family troubles, but if she was defeated, certainly I had nothing to do with it.”

] Soll Koli “Ah… Always trust a bard to lie! Or at least embellish the truth a bit. And I can see there was enough truth in the song. You did live in Norland then?”

Dawndra] “Yes, but..”

] Soll Koli “And you did have conflict with the Firbold Lallargh?”

Dawndra] “Yes, I suppose conflict is a fair word. But…”

] Soll Koli “Then the rest is entertainment. The truth of the song was enough for Sharvasla to travel to find you in Norland.”

Dawndra] “But I am not in Norland, and I’ve not been in a tenyear.”

] Soll Koli “Exactly why ‘The Continuing Saga of the Lofty Snow Lass’ is going to be a legend. I knew I had to write it as soon as you said your name.”

Dawndra] “Now you are going to write a tale about me?”

] Soll Koli “I am the Skald Soll Koli, you should expect no less. Stories are my meat and milk! My sun and sky! And your story is…. Well… rich deserts I expect. Yet also I feel your story to be still merely at the first verse however – the prelude of an epic. I see your mother’s strength in your heart and may the Realms shake as you journey thru them. There shall be many tales to be told – of this I am certain. For now, however, allow me to offer you refreshment. You have journeyed far.” She leads your party over to large crystal-formed font filled with a clear liquid that appears to be somewhere in state between water and ice. There is a single-ounce dipper spoon hanging from its side. “Measure a single spoon and drink – this will restore you and strengthen you.”

Dawndra] I follow her counsel and drink a single dose of the liquid.

] The ice-cold substance feels like gelfat as it slides down your throat, yet it warms you as it enters your belly. You immediately feel like you have awoken fresh from a long nights peaceful sleep. You gain (4d4+4 = 14) temporary HP. Your whole body is energized and alert.

Dawndra] “This feels amazing! ”

] Soll Koli “Sharvasla calls it her Elixir of Trilirime. I’ve gone a whole tenday without sleep using only a single dose a day.”

] Melthor “If one dose can do that, what would two or three doses be capable of?!”

] Soll Koli “I’ve never tried it, and never would in light of the doom-warnings Sharvasla gave. Too much of a good thing is never a good thing… oh, I should write that down. ”

] The rest of the party enjoys a dose of The Elixir of Trilirime as Soll Koli pulls a giant-sized chair over to where there are a handful of human-sized chairs. She waits for you all to join her.

] Soll Koli “Spinedelver! Tell us a story yes?”

] Shent “Wha? I don’t…”

] Soll Koli “Surely a Ranger of the Spine has many grand stories to tell.”

] Shent “How did you know I was a Spine Ranger? How do you even know of our company?”

] Soll Koli “Would you believe me if I said I could smell the fact? Probably no… but I am not now the teller in this story circle… give us the figures of one of your grandest adventures.”

] Shent “Well it true that I have seen a thing or two but retelling them is not… I’m not one to talk story like my father.”

] Soll Koli “Oh? Well then tell us a story as your father.”

] Shent “I’ve heard the stories recounted plenty so I suppose I can tell one. Thaarnik Spinedelver is among the heroes of Tentowns, and the people still treat him so even though many do not even remember the dire conflicts with the barbarian hordes. It was well over a hundred years ago that the tribes of the Reghedmen banded together to end the invaders, as they saw the towns. There was an outcast Drow who…”

] Soll Koli cuts him off “Drizzt Do’Urden yes?”

] Shent “Yes, Drizzt Do’Urden… he somehow learned early of the attack and for some reason alerted the towns so that they could fight prepared. My father was called to their defense by Bruenor Battlehammer – his clan leader.”

] Soll Koli “So then Thaarnik Spinedelver began his life as a Battlehammer?”

] Shent “Yes, he born under Kelvin’s Cairn into the Battlehammer clan. As I was saying, Thaarnik was called to defend Bryn Shander, along with my two older brothers…”

] Soll Koli “… and their names are?”

] Shent “…were… Tornidir and Umgrin. The barbarians approached Bryn Shander, thinking they had the advantage of surprise, but it was they who were unprepared for an ambushing onslaught. Their numbers were quickly decimated and the town saved but at great cost to my father. Both sons fell in the defense. His grief was powerful upon him and vengeance colored his eyes – though his sons enemies were already dead. It was a Genasi, a priestess of Shaundakul, who…”

] Soll Koli “Fizzy? Was the priestess named Fizzy?”

] Shent “You do not make story telling easy do you Soll Koli? Yes, her name was in fact Fizzy. I stagger to discover that you know of Fizzy but if I ask you to explain, I will never finish the telling. This priestess saw the fires of hate in Thaarnik, but also the root of love, and ceased her wander-travels for a time to heal my fathers heart. He usually skips over that part of the story himself. Anyway… when Clan Battlehammer determined a return to Mithral Hall, Thaarnik opted to stay where his sons lay buried. Many others stayed behind as well, deciding to find a new home here in the Spine of the World rather than leave Icewind Dale with Clan Battlehammer.”

] Soll Koli “And they formed Clan Spinedelver!”

] Shent “Yes. Thaarnik was not ashamed of his clan name, yet decided to join with the remnant. Today, only he and I carry the clan name because, as you mention… the dragon of their demise. It sounds like you know that story already.”

] Soll Koli “More… I’ve seen them… the standing tomb corpses of your kinsmen – some frozen in place with working tools in hand as the white dragon unleashed its uncanny frost breath upon them.”

] Shent “I was a babe still when that happened. In fact, my father was not with his kin at the time because of me he says.”

] Samsam “So you saved his life?! Even as an infant?”

] Shent “I suppose that is the truth of it… There you have it, my father’s story is told and I tire of the telling.”

] Soll Koli “Thank you Shenthrik Spindelver. I know you surely have more to tell, but I will give you leave of it.” She turns to the firehaired girl. “Samsam – tell us a story?”

] Samsam “Me? I have no adventures to tell of! I live with my gran-gran and help her run the Rest. My father carried this sword” she draws the longsword out “but I know nothing of his adventures either. My mother is a mystery to me – gran-gran never speaks of her.”

] Soll Koli “Surely you have had at least one adventure. Something has ignited the brave-flame within you – I can sense it surely.”

] Samsam “Well yes, I have had one adventure, just this tenday in fact. You see I met Dawndra when she came to the Rest asking around for Shent, who happened to have certain…” she looks to Shent with a smile… “feelings over, and well I suppose thinking back on it, I didn’t treat Dawndra all too kindly…” she looks to you “sorry Dawndra”

Dawndra] I smile at Samsam “You did no wrong friend.”

] Samsam “and then Shent and Dawndra chased off after a serial killer we thought to be in Easthaven and I couldn’t find my fathers sword… and besides gran-gran said there were chores and…”

] Soll Koli “You have no aspirations to bardhood do you Samsam?”

] Samsam “What? No, I guess, maybe? I don’t know what you mean?”

] Soll Koli “Nevermind… you were trying to find your fathers sword…”

] Samsam “Yes! And I did find it. Gran-gran had it all wrapped in oily rags in the basement behind the split kegs I never fixed. Suddenly I knew, I just knew, like right here in my chest…” she grabs a large handful of a large breast for illustration “I knew that Shent was gonna need my help soon and I had to hurry. I borrowed an axebeak… oh… I forgot about that… I still need to pay Elgin for that axebeak… he’s going to give me stink-eye when I get home… I caught up to them and they were just getting ready to ambush three maraudin Verbeeg.”

] Melthor “Actually, we were hiding from them, hoping to avoid any blood-spill.”

] Samsam “Right, but from where I was it looked like a grand attach scheme and I thought ‘Here I am just in perfect time! I knew my chest was true!” She grabs her breast again for effect. “We vanquished the marauders and then found ourselves outside the White Cliff Caves of Xover… and there was this sound like a wind-witch howling from caves… and a half-elf holding and these frozen men who could speak into your mind and make you want to do things you don’t want to do and… oh! Yeah! There was a frost giant too! Not a living one…. But it still had some skin… didn’t it Shent?”

] Shent “It did have some still hanging on its bones Samsam, you are accurate if confusing.”

] Soll Koli “I have heard a few verses about the Xover cult. Is it true they are all buried in a pool of quicksilver?”

Dawndra] “We did not see a pool of quicksilver, but now that you mention it… the blue men who were not men… they bleed something like quicksilver.”

] Shent “They didn’t exactly bleed… they sort of… spilled the stuff and then fell into a pile of bones.”

] Soll Koli “Quicksilver and a pile of bones? Constructs of the Netheril? Someone is using the Netherese Catafalques again? Oh Rivers of Iallanis! This is troubling. But please continue.”

] Samsam “After that we helped the merchants get to Easthaven. We never found the serial killer. Then Dawndra and Shent gave me this bow and this magical blindfold, you should really try it, though I suppose it might not fit for you, but it makes far seem really close once I draw back on the bow and it even shows me with a little red spot where my arrow will be if I let it go.”

] Soll Koli “Thank you Samsam. That really is quite the adventure isn’t it? You are both brave and strong Samsam, keep your heart as it is today and you will have bards singing of you for a hundred years – of this I confident.” She turns to Garlvan and Thavila. “You two are the founders of the Red Drakes are you not? You have been here before yes?”

] Garlvan “Yes, but only to the threshold, to deliver packages from Bryn Shander.”

] Soll Koli “How did would-be adventurers become messengers? Surely there is a story there to be told?”

] Garlvan “We are still adventurers!”

] Soll Koli “I did not mean to denigrate, I retract the words. But please tell us a story?”

] Thavila “Like many in the Frozenfar, we had to flee our home as fugitives.”

] Garlvan “We originally fled eastward from Tymanther to the Calim Desert, thinking we were plenty far from our troubles…”

] Thavila “That is where we met Nim Bragos – in the Coinmother in Memnon.”

] Garlvan “We did some artifact recovery for him – Calimshan is rampant with lost treasures underground.”

] Thavila “And that is how we first met our darling rogue – Lorvus.”

] Soll Koli “Lorvus?”

] Garlvan “A prominent and long-time member of the Red Drakes. We had to cover his body just yesterday in Frostfalls Pass.”

] Soll Koli “I am sorry to hear. Tell me of your meeting?”

] Thavila “We were hired to recover the Wand of Myntharan from an estate in Teshburl…”

] Garlvan “It was not exactly thievery… the artifact had been stolen a year prior from a pasha of Calimport who was eager for its return.”

] Thavila “Still we needed a thief. Stealth and Slight are not exactly in our box of tricks… ”

] Garlvan “We actually were on our way to the local Thieves Guild to hire out some assistance when we were nearly knocked over by an escaping Lorvus – guards in pursuit.”

] Thavila “Something about his quirky smile in that moment made me think we must aid him. So I cast a little confusion and scattered the guards to ensure his escape. Somehow he knew and circled back to find us.”

] Garlvan “Spent the evening drinking with him in The Roving Rune. We have been a team ever since.”

] Thavila “It was not long after that when our own troubles caught up with us. The Nine found us in Memnon.”

] Garlvan “Sent a Genasi assasin after us they did. I was nearly made dead by a poisoned bolt in the back.”

] Thavila “We escaped by hiding in Nim’s caravan as he traveled north. And that is how we found ourselves in Icewind Dale.”

] Soll Koli “Are your ‘troubles’, this ‘Nine’ you mention, still seeking you?”

] Garlvan “Far as we know, yes.” He turns to Thavila and whispers… “we probably should not name our troubles dearest, its one way to dodge back luck at least.”

] Thavila “Of course. Please forget my mention of the Nine?”

] Soll Koli “Understood – forgotten it is.” She shifts her large frame towards the other dwarf of the party. “We have not heard a single word from you friend. Ballga was it?”

] Brallga “Brallga. Brallga Thornhold. Please excuse my withdrawn mood.”

Dawndra] “We just extracted Brallga from a mad alchemist’s device. I would say it seemed a harrowing experience.”

] Soll Koli “You will have to just tell me your story another time then Brallga. Please feel welcomed to whatever comforts you might need now.”

] Melthor “I can tell my story. I joined the Bryn Shander City Militia because it was a simple way to blend in and disappear in the Frozenfar, but I am originally from Everlund. My father is a Principal in the Vale Army – and a hard man to serve under. He trained me to be a soldier since my earliest memories, but pleasing Hamlin Farkill is an impossibility – especially if you are his only son. Ironic it is really that I became a member of the millitia here because when I left Everlund, I left my sword behind – a message to my father that I was rejecting the life he intended for me. I came to Tentowns after seeing a piece of art made here from the Knucklehead Trout. ‘That is what I want to be’ I thought… ‘an artist!’. And so I travelled to Icewind Dale to try my hand at scrimshaw. It turns out I am not very good at it in the end.”

] Samsam “Melthor Farkill is your full name then?”

] Melthor “Yes, but I keep that hidden so my father will not find me – not that he cares to look for me. I assumed the name Melthor Laycwyn…  that is how folk know me in Bryn Shander.”

] Soll Koli leans down from her sitting position towards Melthor “How long did you practice scrimshaw before deciding you were not good at it?”

] Melthor “I don’t know, a few tendays at least.”

] Soll Koli “Did you seek out a teacher to help you learn?

] Melthor “Not exactly, I watched some of the artists in town do their craft, I tried to pick up their techniques.”

] Soll Koli “Did you ask them questions?”

] Melthor “I would not want to bother their work.”

] Soll Koli sitting back up says “I don’t know much about scrimshaw, but I will tell you this… an endeaver to create any sort of art takes far more than a few tendays. It usually requires a skilled teacher also, someone willing to guide your hands for a while until they develop a knack for the craft. Creating art is like learning to speak another language. In fact it is another language. When you create art, you are speaking from a place inside you, telling the world what is important about the world in your perspective. You are saying ‘Here world, take a look see! This is what is beautiful, this is what is good, this is what is true.’ If you have a desire to be an artist, do not silence that desire, but also be very patient with it. Give it time to grow and develop within you. Learn and practice and practice and learn. Maybe its not going to be Knucklehead Trout bones… but find what you can to express that desire. I trust your art will impress.”

] Melthor “Thank you Soll Koli. I will carry your wisdom with me.”

] Soll Koli shifts her attention to you Dawndra and smiles “The Lost Daughter… tell us what you know about your origins?”

Dawndra] “It would seem you know far more than I Soll Koli.”

] Soll Koli “Perhaps yes. But it has been nearly 3 tenyears since your mother saw you, nearly 3 tenyears of trying to discover the story of what happened and only you can tell it now.”

Dawndra] “I grew up in the mountains of Norland. The story I was told by the elders of our village was this; As a mere baby I was found along the shoreline in ship wreckage. I was wrapped in a fur pinned tight with this.” I remove my ice pin from my hair and show it to Soll Koli. “This is the weapon you spoke of earlier, but for many years it was just a hair pin. I feel it is a part of me, in fact if you were to take it and hide it from me, I would know just where it is – I feel it pull on me.”

] Soll Koli “In a way, it is a part of you… but back to the shoreline… Who found you?”

Dawndra] “A shaman of the Uthgardt – or so I was told. He knew by my size and skin that I did not belong with the humans… the Northmen would not accept me as one of theirs, nor would the Ffolk of the Isles. So he took me into the Jotunhammer Mountains and found a Firbolg family which was willing to raise me as one of theirs. And they did, with some kindness even, but it was always obvious that I was a misfit. Only Sheogor really treated me like I belonged. He loved me like a true brother. I find now saying his name causes me to miss him.”

] Soll Koli “Sheogor was one of the Firbolg?”

Dawndra] “Yes. He too was a baby when I arrived. We grew up together really. It is probably my fault, but he was also a kind of misfit of the tribe. He preferred the company of trees and wildlife over his own kin. If ever I went to find him, he would be sitting alone in the upper forests listening to movements of the tress.”

] Soll Koli “You had nothing to do with that Dawndra… all Firbolg tend towards nature. In fact they are among the very best caretakers of the lands among the Realms. They all tend to be reclusive and find their sacred moments alone in nature. Sheogor is more like a brother to you that perhaps you know… you are both giant-kin. But I risk revealing too much… please tell how you came to leave Norland?”

Dawndra] “Giant-kin? I suppose that should be no great shock… I just had never considered it might be the case… Leaving Norland… well it probably started five or six years prior to actually leaving. I found I could extend my ice pin by willing it so. At first it was just a small change.” I demonstrate shifting the to the size of a dagger. “As I played with it, it soon grew larger, longer. I began to suspect that my story was somehow tied to this magical item so I practiced fighting with it – every day. I must have been about 16 or 17 when I decided I needed to find a teacher to progress my skills with the pike.”

] Soll Koli “So you left Norland to find a teacher?”

Dawndra] “Yes. Well not at first. I started among the humans in Rogarsheim. I learned some basics of sword play and footwork in fighting from a fellow named Dahkern who had position at Stormbanner Hold. Dahkern was the combat trainer of there. I think he found me interesting if odd, and would teach me when he had spare time. I wanted to learn spear-fighting, and he taught what he could but soon suggested I find a master to study under. It was about a year later that I climbed aboard a ship heading towards Baldurs Gate. I started looking for a teacher there was eventually referred to Monastery of St. Domin by a wandering monk. I hopped another ship to Tethyr that same day. It was a disappointment however… Dohkern had greater martial expertise than the teachers of St. Domin. I wandered the region for several months taking on whatever work I could find – which led me to working the vineyards in a winery in the Small Teeth. I spent an entire season in the hillside vineyards and living in the worker shacks before even entering Treyvigg Monstary grounds. When I finally did climb the longstair to the main grounds, I was amazed to find groups practicing martial forms, specifically defensive forms and – to my delight – there was a Elder spear-master there. He soon recommended me as a novice and took me as his student. That was nearly ten years ago. Now I teach others at Treyvigg Monastery as Guide.”

] Soll Koli “Tethyr is a far to the south…. how is it you find yourself here in the far north?”

Dawndra] “Two reasons really. First of all, I came to Tentowns to compete in the Frozenfar Fray Games. One of my teachers, Elder Riandyl, suggested I test my skill in the games. She herself competed a few years back.”

] Shent “Riandyl hired me as her guide for that adventure.”

Dawndra] “Yes, that is how I met Shent, Elder Riandyl said I could trust him, and she spoke true. The other reason, also sparked by my teacher, was to see if I could discover something of my kind or kin in Icewind Dale. That led me to an undressed halfling merchant, who led me to the Red Drakes, who led me here. It all sounds more tidy that it actually is.”

] Soll Koli laughs “It always does Dawndra. How interesting that your small ice pin spurred you forward until you found yourself back at the place of your birth. Neither myself or Sharvasla would have anticipated it. Yet here you are. ”

Dawndra] “So my mother has been looking for me? For 30 years?”

] Soll Koli “She never lost hope that you survived the shipwreck. She said she could feel your life within her and never once gave to thinking you had died. No one could ever imagine that you would wash ashore so far south. Norland must be 700… 800 miles from Icepeak where your ship was attacked. And you were a helpless baby… surely there is more to that story. More than any will ever know I expect.”

Dawndra] “800 Miles! Are you telling me that I floated 800 miles on a piece of shipwreck as an infant?”

] Soll Koli “I’m saying you were aboard a ship with your mother near the Icepeak isle. The ship was attacked, I will leave out by who, and many were lost. Sharvasla barely survived. You somehow survived… and you are saying that were found 800 miles away. I find it quite as amazing as you do Snow Lass.”

Dawndra] “Wow! I always assumed that there was a shipwreck… but that it went down near Norland. Must I now suspect the gods of intervening?”

] Thavila “They often do Dawndra, and if they did on your behalf, I praise their wisdom.”

] Soll Koli “Surely the bards sing of such intervenings, and now the Skald Soll Koli will too! I’m hungry… who wants eats?”

] The Frost Giant leads you across the massive temple floor to a doorway on the far side. Within is a chamber with several branching tunnels – all high and wide. You follow as she walks with surprising lightness down one of the corridors where you begin to smell meats and spices. Within the well-stocked larder you all find something to please your appetites while Soll Koli gnaws on a strip of dried beef so big that looks to be the entire side of a beast.

] Soll Koli “I see you prefer a good axe Shent, like any dwarf worth his salt. No offense Brallga… Of course, your mace tells me you are likely a cleric and a cleric would just look strange with an axe.”

] Brallga “Verna speaks to you!?”

] Soll Koli “Wha? Verna? Who?”

Dawndra] “The mace. Brallga’s mace is… how does one explain it? It is inhabited… by someone named Verna.”

] Shent “A grumpy someone to be sure.”

] Brallga “She says you were no delight either Shent. It is generally true though, and she does not like to be touched by others.”

Soll Koli] “Amazing. I obviously did not intend to say Verna was telling me anything, only that it seems to me that a Dwarf with a mace is likely a special Dwarf with a special relationship. Who is it that you serve Brallga?”

] Brallga “I am a Haelan Cleric… in happy service to Haela Brightaxe.”

Soll Koli] “The Lady of the Fray! I know so little about her! You must tell me… when you in a good place to talk story of course, I would not rush you… but I’ve never met a Haelan Cleric…. The Kaxanar you are called right?”

] Brallga “Yes… Bloodmaidens.”

Soll Koli] “Fascinating… it is rare to meet a female Dwarf, much less a female Dwarf Cleric.. Much much less a Kaxanar! Your party must feel beyond honored by your presence.”

] Brallga “They don’t really know and I haven’t really cared to tell.”

] Garlvan “Kaxa what? Please do tell us Brallga?”

] Soll Koli “I fear I have pushed into a nettle-nest. My apologies Brallga. It seems I often have to take back words and unring bells. Perhaps my tongue is inhabited – by a sloppy drunk… We are all given right to hold and release our life stories as we will. Please friends, forgive and forget my intrusion into Brallga’s?”

] Thavila “But Brallga, we have walked together a year, fought and bled together… something so important to you.. Kept hidden?”

] Shent “I dare not speak on your behalf as a Bloodmaiden… but as a Dwarf, I can say that we assume those outside our race are also outside our ways and simply will not understand. It is a safe assumption, if sometimes false.”

] Brallga “Just quiet now!” She yells. Then she forcefully drops the heavy mace to the ground and steps back and looks around at you all. “It is possible Verna has also poisoned me against all others  – even those of my own race. I would be free of her… but I need her by my side. Verna is, or was, or… well I’m not sure… but Verna is also Kaxanar – once a high priestess… called to be one of the Hallowed Crimson. I am convinced that Verna will somehow intiate the return of Haela to the Realms. What that actually means… I’ve no knowledge. Verna is a burden I happily carry in hope of seeing my Lady Brightaxe in splendor.”

] Soll Koli “It is no wonder you have kept quiet on these things. I give you my word to share your silence. Surely everyone here does as well?” She looks around at everyone expecting agreement.

Dawndra] “Of course Brallga. And if there is any other way I can help you carry this burden…, please consider me a friend?”

] Soll Koli “And now a change of topic! Thavila… I notice you carry no weapons at all? Is this by choice?”

] Thavila “Not really… my quarterstaff was lost while I was forced to sleep in the old offal of an owlbear.”

Dawndra] “It was really quite an unpleasant smell. We, yesterday, found Thavila, Garlvan and Brallga – all captured, one way or another, but someone calling herself Tarina. She was creating these mutated beasts in large vats of slime and somehow using Garlvan and Brallga to do so.”

] Thavila “I would have rescued you myself, I was certain to when I triggered a trap. Last thing I remember was that noxious smell filling the cave… and then Dawndra and friends waking me. My quarterstaff has not been seen since.”

] Soll Koli “I want to ask more questions… but I’ve extracted plenty of story from my new friends for one day. Come with me to the armory… I’m certain Sharvasla will not mind gifting a few of her creations.”

] She leads you down another corridor into a large square room. There are crates stacked high near the entrance and throughout the rest of the room are racks filled with various weapons. They are all made entirely of ice.

] Soll Koli  “Please, each of you, choose one from those on display. You are welcomed to as well Dawndra, but I expect none will compare with what you already carry. ”

] Thavila is browsing a row of staves. “They are made of ice? Will they not shatter with first impact?”

] Soll Koli “They appear as ice but they are also something else. Dawndra… has your spear ever once shattered?”

Dawndra] “Never. It is stronger than any steel and lighter than wood. It has never failed me.”

] Shent picks up a battle axe. “It is so cold, how can I hold it in battle?”

] Soll Koli “These are all imbued with enchantments. Once attuned, your hand will not suffer cold. In fact you should find you have a better grip than ever before.”

] Melthor “Enchanted? How are we to know what sort of enchantment?”

] Soll Koli “Take your time, select one which feels right in your hands. That is all you need to decide. Then I will share what I know of the enchantment. ”

] Samsam “I am learning to use a bow, but I do not see any bows here?”

] Soll Koli “Right Samsam, there is a good reason for that, but I won’t bore you with the details. Here is something for you however.” She points to what looks like a thin vase made of ice, perfectly round and nearly invisible – like looking through water.

] Samsam “Oh! That is lovely! Our Summer Flowers will look beautiful in it! I am so pleased, thank you thank you Soll Koli!”

] Soll Koli looks to you Dawndra “She is not being snarky is she?”

Dawndra] “No…. I do not believe she knows how. That there is genuine gratitude from this girl.”

] Samsam “What? Hunh? I don’t understand…”

] Soll Koli laughs “You are delightful Samsam. It not for summer flowers. It is a magical quiver. Once you are attuned to the enchantment, it will produce powerful arrows made of ice. Simply fill the quiver part-way with water, or even snow, and when you reach for an arrow there will always be one for you. One thing to note, the arrow will return to liquid before long so you have release fairly quick – especially if targeting a long distance. Wait too long and your enemy will merely get a little wet.”

] Samsam “Wow! That is fantastic! Are you sure you want to give this to me?”

] Soll Koli “I am certain Sharvasla would be at least this generous and likely more. All of these items here are of her crafting. She would surely want the company of her lost daughter to be well-equiped. She might even be angry with me if I let you leave without a boon.”

] Shent “This battleaxe seems it will do just right.” he says while flipping the massive double-bladed weapon in circles to get a feel for the weight. “Amazing how ice can feel so perfectly weighted.”

] Soll Koli “Perhaps one of the most famous weapons from Shanatar. That is the Riftblade of the Crusader. The original belonged to Taark Shanak, founder of Shanatar.”

] Shent “You cannot be truthful. You have seen the actual battleaxe of Taark Shanak? It would be thousands of years old!”

] Soll Koli “Yes – from The Crown Wars. You would be surprised just how perfect the condition of the weapon is today. ”

] Shent “Is it… it’s not here is it?”

] Soll Koli “Not anymore. Given its significance, Sharvasla restored the artifact to its rightful home. I believe it now resides in the Underwatch. It was originally recovered by Nim Bragos, or someone working for him, several years ago. Apparently it spent thousand years or more resting with an unknown corpse in a lost chamber of Wyrmheart Mine. I wrote a song about that nameless adventurer called Pockets of Diamonds. Remind me to sing it for you later.”

] Shent “Is this only replica you have made of the Riftblade?”

] Soll Koli “It is not, and others can be made still. It is a costly process but once Sharvasla has…” She looks to Dawndra briefly. “Best perhaps I not say more. Be to answer your concern, you would not be claiming the only of its kind. It is a good choice for you, and you a good choice for it.”

] Shent “Wait! You are not saying it has a sentient within are you? Because…”

] Soll Koli “No, it is not a sentient personality… but there is something unique about the enchantment. The original could only be truly used by somene of Dwarven lineage, so is the case with this ice replica. The original enchantment would display differently depending on its attuned holder. It is hard to explain really… The enchantment, while not a personality you can interact with, does slowly begin to learn who you are. From what I learned of the Riftblade, those who hold firmly to their Dwarven heritage and values will be granted more and more power from this weapon. It was a long and exacting process for Sharvasla to… there I go talking again. Apologies. Allow me to say, this weapons enchantment will reward you for valor, loyalty, bravery. It may also withhold power from those it finds unworthy.”

] Shent “But it won’t talk to my head.”

] Soll Koli laughs “No, it won’t talk to your head.”

] Melthor picks up a strange short sword “What is this? This is the thickest short-sword I’ve even seen. My hand barely even stretches around the hilt? Is it a giants toothpick?”

] Soll Koli “Ha! It might work well as one Melthor. It is twin blades – they separate when needed. Do you feel draw to this weapon?”

] Melthor “Certainly it is not a soldiers sword, but I am trained in little else.”

] Soll Koli “It sounds to me like you should keep looking. Pick up some others, just try to feel your way to a choice – do not worry about looks or status. Something here will feel right for you, I am certain.”

] Garlvan has a massive great-sword in his hands. “This is unlike any blade I’ve ever touched!” He swings it around with both hands. “Perfect balance! How does Sharvasla accomplish such perfect balance?”

] Soll Koli “I hesitate to reveal too much… but I will say this. These ice weapons are counterparts of other weapons… they are copies of a sort. That great-sword is derived from Kolmeks Cutter. Is that your choice?”

] Garlvan “Yes. It is like you say, it ‘feels’ like my choice. I cannot describe it beyond that.”

] Soll Koli “Once attuned, this Cutter will shield your mind. It carries an energy which repels psychic  attacks. If you do not know the story, Kolmek was a Kalashtarian, from another plane – a place where Illithids had rule and enslaved many. Kolmek, with his enchanted sword, freed an entire city of their bondage to the Mind Flayers and eventualy found passage to the Realms. The enchantment within Kolmeks Cutter is also within this weapon.”

] Garlvan expresses gratitude for the boon and continues swinging the majestic great-sword in the air, almost laughing at times in marvel.

] Thavila meanwhile has found a staff to settle on. “Will this size as Dawndra’s does?”

] Soll Koli “No, or well, it might for Dawndra but no… no one else can effect the ice material that way.”

] Thavila “Just as well… This is the one that feels right.”

] Soll Koli puts her hand out to look at the weapon. “Ah, a conjuror, a fine choice. This weapon will create a momentary burst of spectral blades which will circle around it. Don’t use it too close to your friends.” She hands it back to the thankful Thavila .

] Melthor “This is an odd looking blade. I’ve not seen one like it before.”

] Soll Koli “It is called a Katana. They are common in Kara-Tur but in this part of the world, quite exotic. This one is derived from blade of Muki Nobi. Interesting that you should find this blade, Muki Nobi was the son of a key military commander – a principal perhaps – in the Chozawa army. Muki Nobi hated this father, Toyo Nobi,  and like you, resented  being forced into the life of a soldier. However his story turns quite different than yours did Melthor. The legends say Muki, rather than running away, went quite mad and beheaded his own father. Muki went on to lead many men in many battles. The original blade, it is said, has beheaded more men than any other blade could even hope to.”

] Melthor “That is certainly grim. I could not carry that story with me.” He returns the Katana to its stand. He looks around and notices he is the only one still browsing weapons. “Perhaps I am not meant to carry a weapon at all.”

] Soll Koli “Perhaps. But please do continue. We are not short on time.”

Dawndra] “I have only seen you pick up various swords, perhaps try an axe, or a hammer.”

] Melthor “Can you see me swinging a war hammer?”

Dawndra] “It is not a fashion choice Melthor. Though perhaps you are right about the war hammer – it requires a certain build of body. Why not try a spear? They are ideal for those with more agility than bulk. I could teach you some basics.”

] Melthor “I have never used a spear before.” He picks up several and tests their weight and feel. He then pulls one with a star-point tip and as he weights it, he gasps. “This one. It is as you say… I ‘feel’ that his is my weapon. I cannot believe how certain I am about it.”

] Soll Koli “The Star Spike of Alva Ildra. It has a powerful blinding enchantment. It can also release star light as it pierces an enemy. Sharvasla worked a long time on this replica and she was never able to match the power of the original. We think it is because Alva Ildra added her own divine  nature to her weapon. Sharvasla acquired the original artifact from traveling merchant who had no idea what he was selling.”

] Melthor “Who was Alva Ildra? Please tell me she did not slaughter thousands…”

] Soll Koli “Alva Ildra was, is, an Aasimar – a human with a celestial hertitage. And no, her story is far from grim. She was famous in Thesk – likely still is – for destroying a cabal of Liches who had enslaved thousands. The songs never mention her dying though where she now is anyones guess. This is a honorable weapon – I think it will suit you just fine.” The Frost Giant turns to you and Brallga “I assume neither of you have an interest in selecting a backup weapon?”

] Brallga “It would only make Verna pissy.”

] Soll Koli laughs “Yes, I imagine it might. Dawndra?”

Dawndra] “I cannot imagine another weapon in my hands.”

] Soll Koli “I am not surprised in the slightest. I cannot imagine Sharvasla weilding any other weapon either.” She pauses and looks around at the party. “Now… who wants a drink?”

] You spend the remainder of the forenhyx listening to song and story from the Skald Soll Koli. Afterwards you all sleep comfortably and the following day begin the journey back to Tentowns. The next day Soll Koli equips with whatever you might need for the return to Tentowns. Sharvasla is likely just boarding a ship for the Moonshae Isles to investigate your previous home on Norland, but Soll Koli does not know where she might go next. If she learns nothing helpful, she might just return to Alzvar.

] You are given a portal icestone by Soll Koli and its use is explained in case you want to return after the Frozenfar Fray Games… or anytime. The portal bypasses Frostfalls Pass – you simply need to step into the deep pool at the base of the lower falls while holding the stone and you will be transported to the gates of Alzvar.  It can only transport one person however.

] You and your party make your way back to Bryn Shander.

The Frozenfar Fray – Opening Ceremony

] You returned from Alzvar and arrived in Bryn Shander late on Uktar 5. You have spent the last 15 days training heavily in preparation for the upcoming events. Samsam and Melthor have been with you for much of this time, watching, learning. Myrtle volunteered the large covered summerporch behind the Rest for your practice. You have gotten to know Shent’s father, Thaarnik, during this time. He is quite old, even for a Dwarf, but you found his mind sharp and his heart warm.

] Samsam has proven remarkably quick in learning the fighting skills you have taught – it seems she does not need to struggle with even the most difficult tactics and forms. She is bright but not the kind of smart that overthinks. If you teach her something – she simply assumes she has learned it. Her confidence is powerful and yet completely without hubris. You find you have become her student in this.

] Melthor, on the other hand, is so full of the expectations of others that he second-guesses everything and is very slow to learn. You have given him one simple spear form of 14 movements to practice several times a day. It would seem he needs little more right now.

] Shent has been absent for much of this time, returning often to Fireshear for what he calls ‘chores’. When he returned to his fathers home last nhyx, he presented you with a gift…. A necklace made from a tip of the horn of one of the dragon-kin beasts you fought underground on your way to Tentowns. He calls it a Frostspawn Ramstone, and suggests you find an isolated space to practice with it. You have to mimic the movements of the dragon-kin – while holding the Ramstone, raise it and your own head slowly upwards – at the peak of the movement, the magical burst is triggered.

] Saarvin arrived in town with Shent. With him was a young female gnome, displaced from Hundlestone by the invasion of the Duergar Grackleback Clan, named Sabyss Dapplenick. Saarvin calls her his favorite armiger ever. She calls him Old Squama for unknown reasons. Roller, Saarvin’s young daughter, has stayed behind in Fireshear with her tutor, Berna – with much protestations from both as Saarvin tells it.

] It is the official start day of the Frozenfar Fray Games. You have spent the early hours standing in line to pay your entry fee and to get your competitor tag-flag. It is snowing large dry flakes which blanket the crowd gathered in the Bryn Shander Market Square for the Opening Ceremony. You are with Shent who is bearing your tag-flag. You judge there are nearly 400 people filling the square. Not a single merchant stand is closed – and there seem to be dozens of new merchant carts shoved into every corner of the market.

] Shent “Torg’s Merchantry is here. I saw them setting up over on the west side. I told you they would be here for the Opening Ceremony… every merchant in Icewind Dale is here. I got tired of tracking them… every time I arrived in a town I discovered they had just left for another… but I know they would be here.”

Dawndra] “And you are now certain our Ice Rune Killer is one of their number?”

] Shent “Absolutely certain. Torrga has small pack of ‘body guards’ which are more aptly called enforcers. The killer is one of them.”

Dawndra] “We will have time to investigate after the ceremony, the earliest transport to Easthaven I could schedule is tomorrow – early forecrex.”

] You look around at the crowd and you see a familiar face, or rather three familiar faces… it is the brazen and brash half-orc and her two kobold cronies from the market conflict in Luskan… Yazga is barely clothed even here in the heavy snow, her red tiger stripes an obviouse source of pride and intimidation. Axe and Pax are close on either side of her, one carrying her tag-flag.

] The crowds stirs and then gets loud as activity starts up on the makeshift stage in the center. Five large humans enter playing music on strange instruments made of bone and bladder. Shent comments that these instruments are from the Bear Tribe of the Reghedmen. The squealing notes are at first harsh but soon the crowd is energized by their performance. Dancers also enter the snow-covered stage and being a forced jig which is apparently traditional for the Elk Tribe. The mismatch between music and dance is painfully obvious, but it seems to a point – to demonstrate that the various tribes and the Tentowns are attempting to harmonize.

] Saarvin and Sabyss have joined you. Sabyss can see nothing of the entertainment so Saarvin hoists her up onto his shoulders like a child and she begins to giggle uncontrollably at the performers.

] The Speaker of Bryn Shander, Duvessa Shane, then stands on stage and welcomes everyone to the 9th annual Frozenfar Fray Games. After some preliminary comments about the games, she begins to explain the rules.

] Duvessa “The first event will begin two days from now on Uktar 23. Dougans Hole has again been gracious to allow our games to take place within the Stones of Thruun but they are unable to provide any lodging. They ask you stay outside of the boundaries of their town during the event. The Stone Throwdown event has Three Rounds. The horn will sound twice to indicate you have one minute to enter the circle. You must leave all weapons, armor and magical items outside the circle. Any use of magic within the Stones of Thruun will be discovered and offenders will automatically lose all three rounds of the first event. Once the horn sounds a third time, the round begins… stay within the circle while removing your competition. After 3 minutes the horn will sound a fourth time at which time all agression must cease. Anyone still fighting after the fourth horn will lose the round. Those remaining inside the circle will be inspected by the judges to ensure the rules have been followed. The winners will be recorded and after a 30 minute rest, the next round will begin. You must win at least one round to move on the next event in Good Mead. Winner in all three Rounds will only need to win in one round to succeed in the next event. Win two and you must win two in the Ice Pit Riot. Win one and you must win all three in the Ice Pit Riot.

] She continues to explain the rules for the following events. You glance around at the crowd and notice someone like you have never seen before.

Kildar Dalar] You see a male Goliath standing seven and a half feet tall. He is unlike others of the Goliath tribes in that he has a full thick mane of golden-sand hair and his skin is the color of hammered bronze. Rather than the symmetrical markings common to the Goliath race, he has erratic swipes of long dark lines that appear to migrate around his body. His deep green eyes are difficult to see behind his uncut and unmanaged hair. He is dressed with skins from the Klantar. He carries a great-maul called Titans Tooth because it is like actually made from a Titans Tooth. He is standing next to his mother, who is taller than he is at nearly 8′. Rivereye is more obviously of the Goliath race, with long white hair and weathered blue-gray skin.

Kildar] When I notice the fine looking white-furred woman noticing me, I offer a big inviting smile and hope for one in return.

Dawndra] I catch eyes with the intrigugingly comely Goliath and find I cannot look away. His smile captures me and I experience a new sensation somewhere deep within me. I realize my cheeks have warmed and that I am smiling silly back at him. I quickly turn my attention back to the stage.

] Shent “Look! There! Gornrik Snowguster! It has to be.”

] You look to where Shent is pointing in the crowd and you see a white haired dwarf, a third the height of Shent. He is dressed in polar bear fleece and carries a waraxe which appears too large for him to even swing. With him are two fierce-looking Leonin women, armed and armored in expensive gear – one of which carries his tag-flag.

Dawndra] “Who is Gornik Snowguster?”

] Shent “Only one of the most legendary Dwarves alive today. He is one of the Arctic Dwarves. They keep to themselves mostly but Gornik is reknown for single-handedly taking down 7 Frost Giants. Stories say he takes their frosty heads clean off before their bodies even hit the ground. (No offense to our Skald friend in Alzvar of course).

Dawndra] “But he is so… small?”

] Shent “Don’t let that decieve… his natural strength matches that of the Frost Giants he hunts – so it is said… If he is in the games, we will have real trouble competing.”

] As you are still inspecting the surprising Dwarf and his two exotic companions, there is a shuffle of the crowd to your right. As you turn to look, you are suddenly embraced in a huge bear hug.

] Kofa “Hi Friend!” the half-orc says, with near glee. “We still must spill some cups together! Remember? Dawndra promised!”

Dawndra] “Kofa! You are looking… great. I am not sure I would recognize you wearing that smile.”

] Kofa “Great is what I am! When Fray games end, Pakbak promises he release bond. I will be free! And I thank you for it!”

Dawndra] “That sounds… well it sounds surprisingly kind… from what I know of the halfling. I am very glad for you. So… Pakbak is entering the Fray games?”

] Kofa “Yes, that why in Icewind. Must go now – I carry his tag-flag. I wish my first friend the best luck in games!” She hugs you again and then shoves her way back into the crowd.

] Shent “What was that!?! Wasn’t she just trying to kill you the other day?”

Dawndra] “And again a few days before that. I cannot explain it. Just as I cannot explain why that burnt little halfling hates me so much.”

] Shent “Be on your guard, that huggy friend business may be ploy.”

Dawndra] “I already had that thought. And of course I will, but I do not get the sense that Kofa is capable of guile. Her holder… certainly. Pakbak Cinderfoot seems stuffed full of treachery and cunning… but not so much Kofa.”

] Several feet away…. While the city speaker goes on explaining the absence of rules in the 3rd event, your mother had been inspecting the crowd.

] Rivereye “Can you believe they are allowing a Bugbear to compete in the games? What next? A Frost Giant? ”

Kildar] “Never seen a Bugbear before. He looks like he could be choice to clap cups with. He is hardly a Frost Giant daamer, though he is a bit taller than you isn’t he. We should be happy they allow our kind to compete.”

] Rivereye “We are hardly monsters!”

Kildar] “Have you not, like, even noticed how the little human children react when they see you mother? Strike fear into them don’t you.”

] Rivereye “How is that… Wait… Are you calling me a monster?” She breaks out in laughter

Kildar] I let the laughter roll out too and hug my daamer.

] Duvessa Shane “…if at any point you require further clarification on any of these, the judges are available to assist. Oh… and please show exceeding respect for The Priests of The Winter Palace… they continue to support the Frozenfar Fray Games without any demand of recompense. Please, only ask them to heal wounds received in the actual events… not the bar brawl you lost your ass in last night… understood?”

Kildar] “This Winter Palace… it’s a temple to Auril yeah? Letting Auril play a part in the games sounds a lot scarier than any Bugbear or Frost Giant!”

] Rivereye “What!? They are healers! What does Auril have to do with any of it?”

Kildar] “Never accept a boon from a Banderhobb! That is what Faater always said innit?”

] Rivereye “He didn’t even know what a Banderhobb is. And neither do you.”

Kildar] “The point is… oh nevermind the point. Just don’t, like, misplace our stock of potions k? I’m only coming to you if I need some mending.”

] Rivereye “Of course my honeycomb.”

Kildar] “Daamer! I asked you to not, like, use those words out here.”

] Rivereye “Of course you did sweetcake, I won’t do it again.”

Kildar] “I don’t believe you. But I squeeze you anyway!”

] Duvessa Shane “This year we have a special guest with us. Loremaster Gifona will now retell the history of how our Fray Games began. Please welcome her!”

] A Half-Elf with short black-blue hair steps up onto the stage with a giant book in her hands. She appears quite young to be an actual Loremaster. She begins to speak but so quietly she cannot be heard, which causes the crowd to get louder with their own sidetalk. She is constantly brushing the falling snow off of the pages of her open book.

] Gifona “… and they Reghedmen tribes were so diminished in number that another assualt against Tentowns might have proved final. It was then that our own Trovus of Caer-Konig made the suggestion of holding a competitive arena battle – that we make peace through fighting…”

] Someone yells from the crowd “He was drunk!”

] Gifona appears startled but responds. “Yes, the comment was made in the Hook & Line after many drinks. Here we are a Tenyear later and surely this must be the greatest turnout yet. Speaker Duvessa… how many competitors do we have this year?”

] Duvessa “183 total!”

] Gifona “Nearly 30 more than last years record breaker. That means the win-pot is….” she pauses to do math in her head, obviously not quick with the numbers. “somewhat over ninety thousand gold!”

] There is a cheer from the crowd. She continues, talking about how the games have benefited Tentowns financialy over the 9 years it has been held. She moves on to explain how perfect the solution has been for curbing the violent tensions between the tribes and the people of Tentowns… Reghedmen and Tentowners now regularly eat and drink together like true neighbors. While not all have forgotten the years of bloody conflict, most now see sense in the peace accord.

] You catch sight of Pakbak moving his way stealthily through the crowd.

Dawndra] “Speak of the little burnt devil… there he is now Shent. What could he be up to?”

] You both watch as he sneaks in behind people standing in the crowd and then jabs a small sharp object into their seat-cheeks and then deftly vanishes. The victims yelp and turn in anger to see who stabbed them in ass.”

Dawndra] “That little bastard! I really should have killed him like a rat in the pantry!”

] You lose sight of him, but you hear several more angry victims nearby and suddenly the whole crowd is enveloped in violence.

Dawndra]

]  You neatly duck and dodge your way to the edge of the fray without getting hit by fist or foot or fight-iron.

] Shent [()] is overwhelmed by the fighting crowd and disappears somewhere under it for a moment. He crawls his way to you and appears, bloodied and bruised and angry about it.

Kildar]

]  You hold your ground and manage put down several attackers without actually swinging your weapon. You take 3 damage in the process.

] Rivereye [()] neatly ducks and dodges her way our from the crowd and then turns to watch her battling son with pride.

] After several minutes of fighting there is loud shrill overhead which staggers the entire mob into stillness. The city militia sweeps through and thins out the crowd to prevent further fighting.

] Near where you are standing Kildar, you see a female half-orc lying still on the ground. Protruding from her chest is a curious looking dagger – made entirely of ice and carved with foreign runic symbols.

Kildar] I get closer to see if there is anything to be done.

] Dawndra – you happen to notice the Goliath who caught your eye earlier standing over a still body.

Dawndra] I go to investigate, fishing my tin of healing salve from a pocket.

] Before you get close, many others have also gathered around. You hear people exclaiming “The Ice Rune Killer! He is here among us!” As you step in behind the bronze-skinned Goliath, you recognize the victim as Kofa.

Dawndra] “Kofa!” I check to see if there is any hope of reviving her.

] The half-orc shows zero signs of life. The rune engraved ice dagger is plunged directly into her heart, just as with the other victims.

Kildar] “Did you know her?” I ask the white lady

Dawndra] “She was… she was my friend… for a moment. Why would the Ice Rune Killer target Kofa?”

Kildar] “Ice Rune Killer? You make it sound serial.”

] Shent has come beside you. “It is very serial. This makes 16 killed in the same manner in the past few tendays.”

Kildar] “Sixteen!? Any idea why?”

] Shent “Many of the victims have been competitors in the games, a few have been judges for the game events. But several just make no sense, like this one.”

Dawndra] “My gut tells me that singed little halfling is somehow behind this. Kofa was his slave and she just told me he was going to release her from the bond. I doubted the truth of it. There is something else too… I didn’t think to connect it before, but when Pakbak Cinderfoot attacked me the first time, he was encased in some sort of ice suit. It made him eight foot tall and powerful. What if the magic that creates that ice suit is somehow related to the daggers made of ice?”

] Shent “Did you see any runes on the ice suit?”

Dawndra] “Not that I recall, but maybe?”

] Shent “If there is some connection, we will find it. I plan on keeping an eye on Torrga and her cronies after this crowd disspates. I will watch for the blackened halfing.”

Kildar] “Roogs… are you guys, like, secret militia or something?”

Dawndra] “Nothing like that. This makes two of our friends dead by this killer – we are probably more interested in vengeance than justice.”

Killdar] “That’s like, whirly.”

Dawndra] “Whirly?”

Kildar] “You know… like fluster-flap!”

Dawndra] “Uh.. Fluster-flap… right… ok. Clever.”

Kildar] “Exactly Roog.”

Dawndra] “Roog? My name is Dawndra. This is my friend and guide Shent.”

Kildar] “Well met Dawndra. Shent. I am Kildar Scarpskimmer Dalar”

] Shent “Whirly name.”

Kildar] “Yeah! You really think?”

] Shent “Yeah, as whirly as I’ve ever heard.”

Kildar] “Thanks Roog. I hope you Righters find that killer and return some blood soundly! I see my Maater giving me stinkeye… I better go tend. Good dagor Roogs!”

] The colorful goliath weaves his way back thru the crowd.

] Shent “Did you understand any of that?”

Dawndra] “About every third word. But with looks like that, he can talk to me however he wants.”

] Shent “Wait… what? Are you experiencing some sort of mating fever? Is this the time for that?”

Dawndra] “No! and no it is not! I was just saying… forget I did… if you will.”

] Shent “Let’s go keep an eye on Torgga. Maybe too we can find a bite and a beer in distance.”

] The two of you spend several hours hanging around the Market Square of Brynn Shander. Torgga’s merchant tables offer many kinds of gear and provisions but no weapons. You observe several customers interact with Torgga and then disappear behind a structure for several minutes before Torgga returns to the tables. She has with her four brutes which spend the whole time standing around like they are guarding the merchandise. A few hours before nhyx arrives, they pack up their tables and load things onto two sled-wagons. The four ruffians then start dragging the sleds to the north end of the market and then towards the Northgate. After securing their wagons behind the Northlook, Torgga and two of the henchmen go into the tavern and two remain with goods.

Dawndra] “The Northlook… just great…. They go into the one place I am banned from.”

] Shent “We don’t need to go in. At least not the both of us. The killer must be one of the four bodyguards. Torgga herself is a nasty villian according to most of the other merchants… but I don’t suspect her of sticking ice knives in unsuspecting folk… she is all about the gold.”

Dawndra] “We could just continue to watch to see if we can catch the ice killer in the act… or…”

] Shent “Or do the Tentowns a favor and bury them all.”

Dawndra] “That feels like something a villian might do. I’m not sure… my gut says we shouldn’t just assasinate them like the Ice Rune Killer is doing.”

] Shent “Well we can just go question the two watching the wagons. Who knows what a few pointed questions might lead to… and if start some kack, then we bury them… how does that feel in your belly?”

Dawndra] “Better I suppose. Not a lot better… but I keep second-guessing this killing thing so maybe I’m no guide to moral choices right now.”

] Shent “One of these brutes has killed sixteen people. More are certain to die. Is it not a moral choice to save innocents by removing the guilty – permanently?”

Dawndra] “You are right. It is exactly that. If I had just finished Pakbak when I had the chance, maybe Kofa would would be alive.” We approach the two guards behind the Northlook. Before I open my mouth, I pull my ice pin and shake my long white hair free as I approach.”Greetings. We would like to ask you some questions about the Ice Rune killings?”

] Thug “Move along.” he says while putting a hand on the hilt of his sword.

] Shent also puts hands to weapons “You don’t understand. We are here to question you. We will move along once we have some good answers. And if we don’t get any… well… I’ve been itchin to try out my new axe.”

Dawndra] “Let us just be straight forward. Which one of you is killing people with daggers made of ice?”

] Thug “Us? The Ice Rune Killer?!” he starts laughing coarsely. “What gives you that idea?”

] Shent “Those ugly things you call faces… to start with. There have been sixteen killings among the Tentowns, and your crew has been present in each at the time. If its not you, perhaps Torgga herself is the Ice Rune Killer.”

] Thug “That is even more funny!”… the other thug adds “Though she certainly has the bells to do it.”

Dawndra] “What about the others? Either of them absent from your crew during the murders?”

] Both of them fully draw their blades and take stances. “We are only going to tell you once more… move along or we are going to do what we get paid to.”

] Shent prepares for combat “So then you are paid killers!” He attacks the thug on the right [()] and strikes with a critical blow. The Riftblade of the Crusader slices into the flippant bodyguard with such power that he drops his sword and falls backward and to the snowy ground. The other thug yells something in response as he advances but the words made no sense to you.

Dawndra]  I attempt to stop him short with my ice pike

] You spear the bodyguard from 10 feet away, drawing blood. He is more angry than daunted by the blow. He steps in to deliver some return [()] but does not get close enough. Shent, rather than striking the fallen human flanks the thug attacking you. [()] His alternate arm is badly hurt by the glimmering battleaxe. The other struggles to his feet and finds his longsword and attacks Shent [()]striking but weakly.

Dawndra] I taunt them a bit “I don’t know friend, neither of these fellows seem mighty enough to be the Ice Rune Killer. I think their swords are just too big for them.” I strike and then take Patient Defense.

] The henchmen of Torgga is apparently unsettled by anger as he attacks you. [()] You easily tap his blade away with your pike and create an opening for a counter attack

Dawndra]

] His anger is chased away by surprise and then fear as your ten foot long needle drives through his shoulder and protrudes from it back for a second before you spin step and yank it back. His sword arm goes slack and he drops his blade. Panic takes over and he runs from the combat, giving you another easy attack.

Dawndra] Without pausing to consider options, I target a vital spot on his back.

] Your weapon slides easily through and exits from his chest, spraying the snow with a shower of blood. Seeing this, the other bodyguard is also suddenly panic’d and drops his sword.

] Thug “Yield! Yield! I am far outmatched and wish to live!”

] Shent “On your knees!” he strikes the back of the bodyguards legs and the thug complies

Dawndra] “So about our questions… ”

] Thug “I really know nothing about the Ice Rune Killer! Honestly it is not me!”

Dawndra] “Who in your group might you suspect then?”

] Thug “Maybe Sephek… He seems capable. He’s only been with us a short while… he disappears all the time and shows up when he feels like it.”

Dawndra] “Is this Sephek in the Northlook with Torgga?”

] Thug “N…n…no. Haven’t seen him since crex, before the Fray games opening.”

] Shent “What does this Sephek look like?”

] Thug “Tall… Black hair with grey sweeps. Cold eyes.”

Dawndra] “Not sure how much that helps us. Now about all of the merchants you have been shaking down. I would like to see their coin returned to them. Do you think you can do that?”

] Thug “Torgga has it. We keep none of it…  Honest, I have only what’s left of paid wages.”

] Shent “That seems difficult to believe. Let’s just kill him and search through pockets afterwards.”

] Thug “No!  Look look…” he empties his pouch into the snow. “Less then 30 gold… its all I’ve got. Look through the wagons if you want, but Torrga doesn’t trust us with her coin.”

Dawndra] “Perhaps we will let you live for now. But you go tell Torgga that justice is tracking her down and her blood will color snow soon if she does not makes things right. Then you leave Tentowns forever and find honorable work. Trust me… if I suspect you are just going to go victimize more innocent folk, I’m going to regret letting you live, I don’t like feeling regret.”

] Thug “I will. I swear I will do as you say if you let me live. I will deliver your message to Torgga and then disappear.” He runs off towards the front of the Northlook after you motion him to leave.

Dawndra] “If he does tell Torgga, we will probably have company in just a minute or two.”

] Shent “Ambush? Or face-off?”

Dawndra] “Intimidation. Hand me a rope.” I throw the rope over an eave and tie it to the legs of the corpse. “This might be grotesque, but it might save some blood. We act crazy when they come, beating this corpse with fierce vengeance.”

] Shent “I can do crazy. Sounds like fun.”  He starts yelling obscenities at the dangling corpse and beating it with fists.

] As expected, three others soon appear around the back of the Northlook, a female Dwarf and the other two human thugs. They stop short when they see the two of you beating the swaying corpse of their cohort.

Dawndra] “And your mother should be hiding her sorry face in shame for bringing you into the realms!” I kick the corpse to swing it back to Shent. “Where’s your father!? He needs a beating too!” I fake a tremble and a shake as if gone mad. [Intimidation Check]

Dawndra]

[()]

] One of the thugs begins vomiting, the other seems frozen in place. Torrga looks confused.

Dawndra] “You!” I point my ice pike at Torgga. “Get over here!” I yell loudly and as ferociously as I can pretend. “Are you his mother!?”

] Torrga shoves the upright thug forward. “Kill them.”

] Shent “Oh yummy! More play things!” He begins skipping gleefully towards them with his battle axe swinging wildly around his head. He releases a loud cackling laughter which surprises everyone, even you Dawndra.

Dawndra] I begin to honestly giggle at the sight of Shent skipping thru the snow but then I play it up. “Go get ’em junior!”

[()]

] The two thugs scramble away, falling into the snow repeatedly as they go. Torrga readies her axes for combat.

Dawndra] “We don’t need to kill you Torrga, put your weapons away. We are looking for Sephek.”

] Torrga “What do you want with Sephek?” She deepens her stance.

Dawndra] “We believe him to be the Ice Rune Killer.”

] Torrga “What!? That is hardly… Why?”

] Shent “The killer is traveling with merchants, and only Torg’s Merchantry has been in every town at the time of a killing. If it’s not Sephek, it must be you!”

] Torrga “Certainly not! Do I look like a serial killer?”

Dawndra] “You look like a thug and a bully who is extorting gold from honest merchants.”

] Shent “Maybe she does need to die. Can I kill her please?” he says wildly, still lost in character.

] Torrga “Come try!” she steels herself

] From beyond the wagons behind you, a voice interupts. “Looks like you need some help Torrga.” You turn and see a tall human dressed in slick black leathers. His hair is long and black with waving streaks of grey. His eyes indeed cold.

] Torrga “Sephek! Just in time! Kill these freaks!”

] Sephek “In time dear midgeling.” He draws a rapier slowly as he circles around the scene. “Some things must be savored a while else they spoil ones appetite.”

Dawndra] I position myself to keep both Torrga and Sephek in view. “At last. The Ice Rune Killer meets his fate.”

] Sephek “Who first spoke that moniker I wonder… I suppose it makes some sense but is it not a bit… drab? Perhaps if they saw what I am really consumating.”

] Shent “By the cold bones of Hlin I shall end you.” He charges Sephek.

[()]

] A massive wall of a water, 10 feet high and 1 foot thick rises up magically from the ground as Sephek speaks some words in a language that sounds like the giant tongue. The water encircles you and Shent then transforms instantly into clear ice.

] Sephek “The time for your bloodlust may arrive, but not today. You have been choosen my witnesses.” he says loudly

Dawndra] “Chosen? By whom?”

] Sephek “By me of course. Sephek Kaltro!”

] Torrga “What is this Sephek? Are you actaully who they claim?”

] Sephek “Fear not Torrga Icevein, my scamp of an employer… you too have been chosen!”

] He runs a hand around an invisible circle. Within the circle, a thin sheet of ice appears in front of Torrga. Runes glow within the surface and begin to spin. Torrga is suddenly frozen, mesmerized by the turning runes of ice in front of her. The edges of the spinning circle pull back, creating a sharp point. A moment later the funnel shape transforms into a dagger and as if released from a bow, it drives deep into the chest of the hypnotized Torrga. She remains standing as a shimmering mist escapes her dying eyes. It floats a moment until Sephek again makes a circular motion with his hand and the mist rushes into it, disappearing. Her body falls into snow, lifeless.

] Shent “What in name of the Wanderer did we just witness.” he says in a whisper.

Dawndra] “What have you stolen from her Sephek?” I say loudly enough to be heard beyond our ice cage.

] Sephek “The most beautiful thing about her. Perhaps, in Torrga’s case… the only beautiful thing. I find it so much more elegant than chopping off a hand with an axe… don’t you think?” he begins walking away. “The blessings of nhyx to you friends.” he turns the corner of the Northlook.

Dawndra] “Well I suppose the mystery is solved.”

] Shent “But the killer has just sauntered away.”

Dawndra] “What do you think he meant by ‘it’s better than chopping off a hand’?”

] Shent “No idea. Is that something serial killers do? Chop off a hand for a trophy or something?”

Dawndra] “Maybe. I think he stole her soul. What kind of evil collects souls as trophies…”

] Shent “The worst kind. Let’s see if we can free ourselves from this ice trap.” He throws a rope over the wall. “Help me over and I’ll ground the other side so you can climb out.”

] His idea works perfectly. You lift him up far enough that he can climb over and down his rope. Then, wrapping it around his legs and waist and pulling backwards, he anchors the rope enough to support your weight. A momement later, you jump to the ground.

] Shent “Shall we search Torrga for the extorted coin?”

Dawndra] “No. We need to hurry away else something think we are responsible. But… Let’s go tell the North Gate guard that we discovered another victim.”

] You report yet another Ice Rune Killer victim and then spend the rest of fore-nhyx at the Rest with Samsam and Melthor.

The Vampire of Wayvern Silva

] The two of you are in Tentowns for the 9th annual Frozenfar Fray Games. Opening Ceremonies were held yesterday in Bryn Shander (which were, of course, interupted by a crowd brawl).  The two of you met when another victim of the Ice Rune Killer was discovered in the post-brawl crowd. The first event of the games, The Stones Throwdown, begins tomorrow in Dougans Hole, but as the small town does not allow competitors of the games to lodge within its limits, Easthaven is the central hub in between events, and the finish line for the final event.

] It is early and First Shadow is barely detectable. It is snowing light brittle flakes as the temperatures are well below freezing. You both found yourselves delightfully surprised to see each other waiting for the same transport sled. Kildar, you are joined by your mother, Rivereye, who is your acting armiger. Shent accompanies you Dawndra. Also on the transport sled with you are two human barbarians of the Tribe of the Tiger; Ellrrilka and Gornkolt. Ellrrilka is dark-haired but bright in disposition, and very talkative for the early hour. She is dressed in skins and furs and wears a distinctive thin white chain around neck. She carries no obvious weapon. Gornkolt, her husband, has been silent. He is similarly dressed and carries a large unadorned axe. Ellrrilka went on at some length about the time she has spent in training for the games ever since her father lost his life to a Frost Troll in the games two years before.

] The driver of the transport sled is a quiet middle-aged human named Freven. His son, Irlad, sits beside his father but turned around and facing you. The boy, who looks to be about 11-12 years, seems fascinated by all of you and listens closely to your idle conversations. He has his arms wrapped around a large water jug made of animal skins which sloshes with the movements of the sled. The two axe-beaks pulling the transport are large and fast and you are making good time along the Eastway towards Easthaven.

] As the forest along the southern side of the Eastway begins to thin out, Shent looks concerned.

] Shent “Driver! You have left the trailway. Good Mead is ahead, we are going to Easthaven.”

] Freven mumbles something about a detour. The forest just to the right is thick and pitch dark beyond the outer line of trees. You notice Freven nudge the boy Irlad who responds by pulling out a small knife and stabbing the water skin. Blood begins to spray out as he squeezes the skin – he is intentionally showering all six of you with its contents. Before you can react, the young son leaps from the transport sled into the snow. Freven turns the axe-beaks directly towards the dark of the forest and then leaps overboard himself.

] Rivereye “A snare! Quickly, jump!” She leaps off of the speeding sled.

Kildar] I follow Rivereye in jumping away and into the snow.

] Seconds later, the rest of you are wrapped in utter darkness, as if a magic light barrier was crossed. The axe-beaks panic and swerve the sled into a large tree (Dexterity Saving Throw)

Dawndra]

[()]

] You jump free just as you feel the sled turn. You hear the crash and the splinter of wood with the loud grunt of impact in the black dark.

Dawndra] “Shent!”

Kildar] I run into the black after them when I hear the transport crash. “Dawndra! Shent!”

Dawndra] Frustrated by the dark, I remember I have the ring and cast Light, targeting a strap of my backpack.

] The strap begins to glow brightly and you see broken pieces of the transport sled scattered before a large tree. The axe-beaks and what remains of the sled are gone. Shent lies just beyond the tree unmoving. Ellrrilka groans and is trying to raise herself up.

] Ellrrilka “Gornkolt?” She looks around her. “Gornkolt!”

Kildar] “He was not with us. Look around, perhaps he was thrown farther?”

Dawndra] I go help Shent [Medical Check]

] He is bleeding from the head but you cannot tell the extent of his injuries. You wrap a bandage around his head to slow the bleeding.

Kildar] I light a torch and search the surrounding area.

] There is no sign of the human barbarian. You can clearly make out the tracks of the broken sled as it was dragged deeper into the wood.

Kildar] “He must have been trapped in the sled somehow. This way! Rivereye, help me search!”

] Rivereye “Let the barbarian search for herself. We are not beholden.”

Kildar] “Mater! You can either get beholden or like just wait outside for us.”

] Rivereye “Stubborn offspring… fine! I will help.”

Dawndra] I lift Shent into my arms and carry him. “Gornkolt!”

] The five of you explore deeper into the wood, following the tracks in the surprisingly soft gloam of the forest floor. Within minutes you see the transport sled ahead of you. Reaching it, you find both axe-beaks slain – large slashes have opened their throats wide. Within the crippled sled, you find no sign of Gornkolt.

Kildar] “Whoa! Something giant tore into these beasts! Just look at the size of those claw cuts! Baffle-bats…”

Dawndra] “You think bats did this?”

Kildar] “No Roog… well like maybe like giant bats… do giant bats have like giant claws? These cuts are from super-sharp like talons… like from a hawk or…”

] There is a large swooping sound over head and an ear-splitting screech of an owl.

Kildar] “… Owl!”

] Giant white and brown owls with glowing red eyes drop down upon you and attempt to grab you with their massive talons. [Dexetrity Save]

Dawndra]

] You leap out of the way of the attack but drop Shent in the process. His unconscious body barely touches ground before another giant owl sweeps him up and carries him into the dark above.

Dawndra] “Shent!”

Kildar] “What runk!”

[()]

] You duck the swooping attack successfully. Rivereye is not so quick – she is lifted into the air. You hear a loud snapping sound and see Rivereye falling out of the canopy, a giant talon in her hand. She lands awkwardly and cries out as her leg snaps in the landing.

[()]

] Ellrrilka evades the capture with a dive and rolls up to a fighting stance, her white chain swinging in her right hand. As another giant owl closes to grab her, she lashes with her chain. [()] Lighting sparks through it and strikes the flying beast in its underbelly. The creature falls to the ground stunned.

Kildar] I bring Titans Tooth against the stunned monster

] You slam your maul into the shoulder of the Giant Owl. The creature ceases to be stunned and attempts to take flight. [()] With two massive wing beats, it is lifted and flying out of sight. The other owls have disappeared into the dark above you.

Dawndra] “They took Shent! Which way did they fly? We have to follow!”

] Ellrrilka “They must have Gornkolt too. I saw one fly in that direction, deeper into the forest.”

Kildar] “Mater! Can you walk?”

] Rivereye “Do you see my shin bone sticking out of my leg? Help me reset it!”

Kildar] “Heinous wound!” I hand my torch to Ellrrilka and attempt to restore the leg

] Rivereye refuses to cry out, but instead passes out from the pain. The bone is returned and you are able to bind it with bandages.

Dawndra] “Here. Use this on the wound.” I open the Liniment Tin.

] The bleeding stops as the magical liniment heals the fractured leg. Rivereye remains unconscious however.

Kildar] “Whoa! Thanks Roog! That stuff is like magic!” I lift Rivereye over my shoulder. “Now we should like go find Shent and Gornkolt yea?”

] Ellrrilka “How do you track things that fly? In the pitch dark?”

Dawndra] “Shent would be able to track them no doubt.”

Kildar] “Even nasty-big Owls gotta ka-ka right? Maybe we can find some kack on the ground and follow it?”

Dawndra] “That is an idea. Although I have another. I might be able to smell them… give me a moment.” [Perception Check]

Result Table

] You recognize the smell of the Giant Owls which just attacked you and have some confidence that the strongest of the scent is coming from the West directly – deeper into the forest.

Dawndra] “This way.” I lead directly West

] As you are walking, you hear several other creatures in the black around you. Some sound like small chittering things but you also hear some sounds which likely belong to larger animals. Ellrrilka seems strangly at ease and keeps trying to start idle conversation.

] Ellrrilka “I do hope we find Gornkolt alive. Really do.  And your friend too of course. It’s not like a can’t live without Gornkolt. It’s not even that I love him… well not overly much… I only married him because it was my fathers dying wish and how does a girl say no to that?”

Dawndra] “You said your father was in the Frozenfar Fray Games two years ago?”

] Ellrrilka “Yes, I was his armiger for the games. We made it through the first two events. We even found a lair of an Ice Troll with ease. We didn’t count on there being more than one of them and we were outmatched. With his last words, he gave me his Lightning Chain and asked that I marry Gornkolt, the son of his best friend. Truth is, we worth both set to unearth the void that day. I was only a few hours behind my father. If it wasn’t for a happenstance Half-Drow seeking a place to hide herself… I would have been on my way to dust by now. Can you imagine? A Half-Drow helping the Tribe of the Tiger?”

Kildar] “I’ve never met a Half-Drow… don’t think I have anyway… how do you like… know it is a half-drow and not a whole one?”

] Ellrrilka “Oh easy! Their skin is not so dark-purply and their ears are not so sharp.”

Dawndra] “Hey friends… The forest around us is warning us to be on guard. Perhaps we can chat once we get to the tavern in Easthaven?”

Kildar] “You are right on Roog. This is no time for chat.”

] You continue deeper into the dark forest for nearly an hour without any confrontations from the creatures watching from beyond the reach of your light. Along the way, Rivereye awoke and was surprised to find she could walk on her now unbroken leg without pain. You eventually reach an area of the forest where the tree trunks around you seem twice in size if not more. Dawndra, you find the scent-track of the giant owls to be particularly strong in this area of the forest.

Dawndra] “I think we may be close. The scent is quite strong here.”

Kildar] “Look around for owl kack. If they nest above we should see evidence on the ground.”

Dawndra] I look up into the canopy to see if I can spot anything.

] In the dim reaches of your light, you notice tree branches in odd formations, hanging between the massive trees in odd angles. There is not enough light to understand what you see.

Dawndra] “Find a rock, something we can throw upward a ways.”

] Ellrrilka hands you rock about the size of an apple. “Here, will this do?”

Dawndra] “Perfect.” I cast Light on the rock and then throw it up into the canopy of the forest.

] As the light travels upward, you see a massive nest made not from twigs and leaves, but whole branches and trunks. It looks like beavers lodge hoisted into the forest canopy. It extends in all directions beyond the reach of your light.

Kildar] “Whirly nest. Look at the size of it!”

Dawndra] “I think we are here.”

] Rivereye “But how are we going to get up there? It must be fifty feet or more!”

Kildar] “Get ya some wings Mata! We must find a way up and so we will.”

Dawndra] “It would appear the ideal home for giant owls, but do we think owls could have made a nest so massive? I cannot even imagine how it was done. There is surely more to this place than an owls nest?”

Kildar] “What a righter are you Dawndra! ”

] Ellrrilka “Owls don’t even build nests… from what I know… they find ’em. They nest in pockets and holes, in places they discover – the nests left behind by other raptors for example.”

Dawndra] I throw the glowing rock up again to see if there is more to learn.

] You see only more of the same. It is an amazing feat of engineering. You cannot tell for certain, but it appears to be very old, perhaps even ancient.

Dawndra] “This was not built by owls or hawks. Look how ancient the structure appears. My best guess is that sentient folk with access to powerful magic made this. Perhaps magic still holds it in place. Let’s search all of these large tree trunks carefully, perhaps there is a stair or a portal we can use.” [Investigation Check]

Kildar]

] You find nothing helpful. No stairways, ladders, ropes or magical portals.

Kildar] “Well… we better start climbing.”

] Ellrrilka “Now I wish I had just let that dretchin owl capture me.”

Dawndra] “Ellrrilka – you may be exactly right. What if we got ourselves captured? Assuming we are in the right place, and assuming Shent and Gornkolt are still alive and being held – the owls just might carry us right to them!”

] Rivereye “Not me! I’m not getting captured on purpose, that sounds like a terrible idea!”

Kildar] “Where’s your adventure Mata!? Where’s your courage?!”

] Rivereye “Where’s your sense boy?”

Dawndra] “Maybe I spoke too quickly. We should try climbing first, and failover to more risky measures. We have enough rope between us I think… if one could make the climb and secure a rope for the rest of us… ”

Kildar] “Hand me a rope… ” I start climbing a tree that appears to be along the edge of the nest-like structure. [Athletics Check]

Roll Table

Kildar]

] You climb 50 feet up, digging and clawing into the thick bark of the massive tree. When you reach the structure you secure the end of the rope. Lifting the glowing rock, you can see that the nest is even larger than you thought. You see no way inside the structure from where you are, but it appears possible to walk on top of it.

] Ellrrilka “I’ll be right behind you Dawndra.”

Dawndra] I start climbing the rope [Athletics Check]

] You quickly make your way up the rope and reaching the top, you join Kildar on its surface. Ellrrilka begins climbing [()] and soon reaches the top. In the light of the torch left on the ground, you can see Rivereye begin her climb [()] but just overhead you hear the slight swoosh of wings. Two Giant Owls attack. [()] Massive talons nearly rip into you Dawndra. [()] The other goes after Ellrrilka, slashing open a shoulder.

Dawndra] I ready my ice pike and take a defense stance for the next attack. (Dodge Action)

] Ellrrilka has her chain already in hand when the owl sweeps back down for a second attempt on her life. [()] Her footing on the oddly built structure is awkward however, and she is once again sliced by talons. The next attack focuses on Dawndra but misses, giving you an opening for reaction attack

Dawndra] “I used to thing Owl’s were pretty!”

Kildar] I leap attack the owl going after Dawndra

] The Giant Owl staggers under successive blows and lands on the roof-top of the nest, one wing hanging awkwardly at its side.

Dawndra] I unleash full attacks

] The Giant Owl squeals in pain as your two-handed needle drives repeatedly into its feathered chest. The red glow of its eyes fades as it falls.

] Ellrrilka “Come down here you dretchin’ bird!” She attacks [()] and strikes the owl as it nears. This time she is spared more bleeding.

Kildar] “Remind me to learn how to shoot a bow, would you?” I rush to stand next to Ellrrilka and ready an attack for the next swoop.

Dawndra] I do the same, closing ranks with my back to the others. (Dodge Action)

] Ellrrilka “It looks like it is hesitating.”

Kildar] “It should be… I’m gonna crack its pretty skull wide open!”

] The Giant Owl circles overhead a few times and then disappears into the surrounding black.

Kildar] “Yeah, fly home to your mama-bird!” I remember my mother is still climbing up the rope and go to the edge.”Come on up Mata, it has left.”

] You look over the edge and see only blackness. The torch on the ground below appears to have gone out.

Kildar] “Mata!? Where are you?… Dawndra, toss me that light rock.”

] Holding the light over the edge, you see the rope dangling empty. Dim light reaches the ground but there is no sign of Rivereye.

Dawndra] “There must have been another owl. Let us hope she has been taken to where Shent and Gornkolt are.”

] Ellrrilka “Over here, I think I found an entrace.”

] You find Ellrrilka standing over a small hole carved into surface of oddly stacked branches. With light you see winding stairs going down inside the structure but it is quite small, designed for folk half your height.

Kildar] “I don’t think I am gonna like, fit.”

Dawndra] “I doubt any of us would. But now we know some truth… this thing is more than an owl’s nest. That seems an uncomfortable fit even for most Dwarves… likely it was built for Halflings or Gnomes. Let’s keep looking.”

Kildar] “Watch your step Roogs, this surface is surplus tricky.”

] You explore further on until you see a slight flickering red light ahead. In what seems like the center of the massive nest is a large aperture. Looking down inside, you see what appears to be an amphitheater of some sort, with small seating circling around a center platform about 20 feet down from the rafters on which you currently standing. On the platform is a long table circled with candles that burn a strangley red color. You recognize Gornkolt strapped to the table and struggling to free himself. Standing next to him is a creature which looks like an owl with humanoid legs and . It is much smaller than the owls you have fought – perhaps 5 feet tall.

] Owlin “Welcome strangers… You are just in time for the feast.” She plunges his small beak into the neck of Gornkolt and blood splashes across her feathered face.

] Ellrrilka “Gornkolt!”

] Three Giant Owls are suddenly overhead. The sweep down to attack you. [()] Kildar fends off their talons but Dawndra takes damage (7hp) from a slicing claw. They fly back out of reach and circle for another attack.

Dawndra] “We need to take away their advantage.” I grab one of the canopy rafters and attempt to swing myself down to the seating area. [Athletics or Acrobatics Check]

] You successfully land your jump down into the ampitheatre. The rafters extend over the seating enough to prevent the swooping attacks of the Giant Owls. Meanwhile, Gornkolt has gone still and the strange owl person is wiping her feathered face clean.

] Owlin “Ah! Desert has arrived early.”

Kildar] “Watch out below!” I copy Dawndra’s move

] You are not near as graceful, but you easily let your self down and drop to the seats from a hang.

] Owlin “Come my thralls, you may feast upon my leftovers while I entertain our new guests.

] Two of the Giant Owls fly down and land on the platform and begin pulling thin strips of meat from the body of Gornkolt. Beyond the disturbing sight, you notice on the far side of the arena Shent is trying to get your attention. Rivereye is chained to the floor alongside him.

] Owlin “Welcome to Fastpaws Mantle. I really shouldn’t be so kind… you did kill one of my pets. That was not very nice.”

Kildar] “Two! We killed two of your nasty pets! And we’re gonna kill the rest after you are dead!”

] The Owlin laughs demonstrably… “Are you now? You are a brash one… but I’m afraid you cannot kill what is already dead… but you can feed it. Looking at you now, so brash! …and so beautiful aren’t you goliath boy… I might just rather play with my food. Tell me charmer, have you ever wanted to live forever?”

Dawndra] She apparently likes to talk… so I try to buy some time to figure out our approach. “Who are you?”

] Owlin “I am wail of the night white child. I am the one that turns your blood cold and makes you piss your leg. My ancient name is Screaka Bomri, but you can call me your Dreadful Dismay… Yes, I rather like the sound of that.”

Kildar] “I will soon call you a smudge on Titans Tooth!” I rage.

] Screaka “Right to it then…” She picks up a silver flail – the spike-ball begins to glow red. “Fine fine fine Bronzie love. Though I really don’t like to play rough right after a meal, it gives me cramps.” She takes a step forward and is suddenly shrouded in a dark mist. It blows directly towards Kildar as if swept by a wind storm. [()] Screaka re-appears out of the mist and strikes Kildar with the flail (10hp dmg) and then vanishes again into mist. You hear her sharp laughter from the cloud as it drifts upwards and out of sight.

Kildar] “Not fair freak-beak! How can I smash mist? Get back here!”

Dawndra] It occurs to me Ellrrilka never dropped down. “Ellrrilka! We could use some help down here!” I circle the two Giant Owls in the center waiting for their next attack.

Kildar] I need to hit something… I charge the center and attack the feasting owls. (01)

] The Giant Owl sees your attack coming but fails to defend against Titans Tooth as it slams down directly into its skull, spitting feather and bone out in all directions. The beast crumples under your rage. The other Giant Owl attacks you [()] its talons ripping at your leg (8hp dmg)

Dawndra] I leap in behind to flank the other Giant Owl and attack with my ice pike

] Without your notice, Screaka, as a mist, has gathered overhead. She suddenly re-forms and drops down on Kildar, attacking with her glowing flail. [()] successfully (5 hp dmg)

Kildar] I return the blow while I still can

] You swing your maul at the vampire owlin, but she has stepped back into mist form. Both of you hear the breaking of a chain and quickly turn to see Rivereye has freed herself.

Kildar] “Mata!”

] The other Giant Owl attacks you as you are distracted [()] but you seem to barely notice the sharp talons (7hp dmg)

Dawndra] “I wonder what roasted Owl tastes like?”

] You spear deep into Giant Owl with a mighty thrust and circle to bring a bludgeoning blow with the butt end of your weapon. The Owl realizes it is now outnumbered and leaps to take flight [Opportunity Attack – Kildar]

Kildar] “Where you going birdy-boy?”

] You swing your maul but miss as the owl takes flight. Rivereye has nearly reached you when the mist cloud that is Screaka forms around her.  [()] The glowing flail strikes Rivereye from behind and she turns to retaliate, but Screaka has already flown out of reach.

] Screaka “Three against one… I think you are outnumbered friends… why don’t we make it four.” She throws a key down near Shent but it is just out of reach. “Opps, I always was a bad throw.” She disappears above the rafters.

] Shent “She is not what she seems! Escape if you can!”

Kildar] “Escape how? We are trapped in this wooden bowl!” I ready an attack action and look to the opening above.

Dawndra] I run over to help free Shent. I kick the key close enough to him and then ready a Dodge against further attack.

] Screaka walks to the edge of the overhanging roof and looks down on you. “The mouth breather is right, you are fairly well trapped even without the chains. You will soon tire, and I will soon be hungry again.” She makes a strange whistling noise from her oddly shaped beak-mouth and 6 shards of ice appear around her. They drop down into the ampitheatre and circle around the two of you

Kildar] “Ice Imps!” I take Titan’s Tooth to the closest one [3]

] “Don’t kill my charmer now minions… you can test him with pain of course… but save him for me!” You hear Screaka say from somewhere above as you crush one of the ice mephits with a downward slam. Before you can lift your maul back to you, the crystals remains of the minion begin to vibrate powerfully and a second later they explode (Dex Save)

Kildar]

] A blast of ice slivers spray out but you take only minimal damage. The remaining Giant Owl takes advantage of the distraction and attacks [()] but you are hyper-aware and its talons snag only air. It flies back out of the ampitheatre and lands beside Screaka. You hear it begin to make short piercing screeches as if raising an alarm.

Dawndra] I see Kildar surrounded by ice mephits and charge in to defend him, attacking the nearest to me (ice mephit 5)

] Your attack is devastating and the ice mephit vibrates and explodes (Dex save)

Dawndra]

] Shent has freed himself and you see him run past you and the ice mephits. As if anticipating some objection he yells… “I need my axe if I’m gonna be any help at all!” and you notice the iceforged Riftblade Battleaxe lies against the wall on the far side of the ampitheater. Kildar – you glance over at your mother and see her freeing herself from the chain around her leg. You notice a cloud of mist swarms around her [()] She cries out as Screaka forms behind her and slams the glowing hot spike-ball into her back.

Kildar] “Mata!”

] Screaka “Ahh… so the boy loves his mother… we can fix that.” [()] She drives her beak into Rivereye’s ribcage, seemingly delighting in the pain she causes. The screeching alarm overhead continues almost hypnotically.

] You lose sight of Rivereye as the entire area around you, Dawndra and the ice mephits is suddenly filled with thick fog and you cannot see even your hand at arms length. The fog shifts chaotically as a blast of cold air assaults you Dawndra (Dex save with disadvantage)

Dawndra]

] Another ice mephit (4) is suddenly behind you Kildar [()] it slashes at you but misses and then vanishes. Another (6) appears alongside you Dawndra [()] its sharp claws miss their strike as you jump away into the fog. The screeching bursts from the Giant Owl above you have stopped.

Kildar] “We have to get out of this smoke!” I run towards the direction I think I last saw Rivereye.

] After about 15 feet you are clear of the fog effect. You see Rivereye motionless on the ground where she was chained. Screaka is no longer in sight. Above you, there are more Giant Owls landing along the rim of the ampitheatre – more than 5 at least.

Dawndra] I attempt to escape the fog as well, moving the direction I last saw Shent.

] As you emerge from the heavily obscured area, you see two Ice Mephits going after Shent, both are within your reach and have their backs to you.

Dawndra] I attack the nearest (2)

] You drive the needle end through the back of one of the Ice Mephits but it does not vibrate and explode like the others, instead it appears to be stunned. Shent goes after the other (1) [()] but misses critically and misteps… stumbling towards you. The Ice Mephit rakes his back with its claws.

] Screaka suddenly appears about 20 feet overhead , she is flying in a tight circle. “You all have never fought together have you? What a downright slovenly display of confusion and chaos. I honestly expected more from you, but now I am getting bored.” She drops a glowing red stone down into the ampitheatre. It lands on the table in center stage and a concussing blast of energy sweeps out and strikes all of you. (Con Save)

Kildar]

Dawndra]

] All of you drop to the floor as your world blacks out.